Smolder versions through 1.51 for Perl uses insecure rand() function for cryptographic functions.
Smolder 1.51 and earlier for Perl uses the rand() function as the default source of entropy, which is not cryptographically secure, for cryptographic functions.
Specifically Smolder::DB::Developer uses the Data::Random library which specifically states that it is Useful mostly for test programs. Data::Random uses the rand() function.
Weakness
The product uses a Pseudo-Random Number Generator (PRNG) in a security context, but the PRNG’s algorithm is not cryptographically strong.
Affected Software
| Name | Vendor | Start Version | End Version |
|---|---|---|---|
| Smolder | Wonko | * | 1.51 (including) |
Extended Description
When a non-cryptographic PRNG is used in a cryptographic context, it can expose the cryptography to certain types of attacks. Often a pseudo-random number generator (PRNG) is not designed for cryptography. Sometimes a mediocre source of randomness is sufficient or preferable for algorithms that use random numbers. Weak generators generally take less processing power and/or do not use the precious, finite, entropy sources on a system. While such PRNGs might have very useful features, these same features could be used to break the cryptography.
Potential Mitigations
References
- https://metacpan.org/release/BAREFOOT/Data-Random-0.13/source/lib/Data/Random.pm#L537
- https://metacpan.org/release/WONKO/Smolder-1.51/source/lib/Smolder/DB/Developer.pm#L221
- https://metacpan.org/release/WONKO/Smolder-1.51/source/lib/Smolder/DB/Developer.pm#L5
- https://perldoc.perl.org/functions/rand
- https://security.metacpan.org/docs/guides/random-data-for-security.html