What is the severity of CVE-2021-46873?

The severity of CVE-2021-46873 is considered high due to the potential for a static private key to become permanently unusable.

How do I fix CVE-2021-46873?

To fix CVE-2021-46873, users should update to the latest version of WireGuard that addresses this time setting issue.

What versions of WireGuard are affected by CVE-2021-46873?

CVE-2021-46873 specifically affects WireGuard version 0.5.3 on Windows.

Can CVE-2021-46873 be exploited through unauthenticated NTP?

Yes, CVE-2021-46873 can be exploited if an attacker can manipulate the system time via unauthenticated NTP.

What happens if my system's time is set to a future value in relation to CVE-2021-46873?

If your system time is set to a future value, it could render your static private key in WireGuard permanently useless.

Vulnerability/
CVE-2021-46873

medium

5.3

CWE

362

29/1/2023

28/3/2025

CVE-2021-46873: Race Condition

First published: Sun Jan 29 2023(Updated: )

WireGuard, such as WireGuard 0.5.3 on Windows, does not fully account for the possibility that an adversary might be able to set a victim's system time to a future value, e.g., because unauthenticated NTP is used. This can lead to an outcome in which one static private key becomes permanently useless.

Credit: cve@mitre.org

Affected Software	Affected Version	How to fix
All of
WireGuard	=0.5.3
Microsoft Windows Operating System
WireGuard	=0.5.3
Microsoft Windows Operating System

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Reference Links

https://lists.zx2c4.com/pipermail/wireguard/2021-August/006916.html

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the severity of CVE-2021-46873?
The severity of CVE-2021-46873 is considered high due to the potential for a static private key to become permanently unusable.
How do I fix CVE-2021-46873?
To fix CVE-2021-46873, users should update to the latest version of WireGuard that addresses this time setting issue.
What versions of WireGuard are affected by CVE-2021-46873?
CVE-2021-46873 specifically affects WireGuard version 0.5.3 on Windows.
Can CVE-2021-46873 be exploited through unauthenticated NTP?
Yes, CVE-2021-46873 can be exploited if an attacker can manipulate the system time via unauthenticated NTP.
What happens if my system's time is set to a future value in relation to CVE-2021-46873?
If your system time is set to a future value, it could render your static private key in WireGuard permanently useless.

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