CVE-2011-4574: PolarSSL versions prior to v1.1 use the HAVEGE random number generation algorithm. At its heart, this uses timing information based on the processor's...

Description

PolarSSL versions prior to v1.1 use the HAVEGE random number generation algorithm. At its heart, this uses timing information based on the processor's high resolution timer (the RDTSC instruction). This instruction can be virtualized, and some virtual machine hosts have chosen to disable this instruction, returning 0s or predictable results.

Metrics

CVSS 3.1

9.8/10

CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:N/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H

EPSS Probability

1.05%

60.0th percentile

Probability of exploitation in the next 30 days. Learn more

Weakness Enumeration

CWE-338

Affected Software

Vendor	Product	Versions
Polarssl	Polarssl	< 1.1.0

References

https://tls.mbed.org/tech-updates/security-advisories/polarssl-security-advisory-2011-02Third Party Advisory
https://tls.mbed.org/tech-updates/security-advisories/polarssl-security-advisory-2011-02Third Party Advisory

Timeline

Published: Oct 27, 2021
Last Modified: Jun 16, 2026
Status: Modified

Frequently Asked Questions

What is CVE-2011-4574?

PolarSSL versions prior to v1.1 use the HAVEGE random number generation algorithm. At its heart, this uses timing information based on the processor's high resolution timer (the RDTSC instruction). This instruction can be virtualized, and some virtual machine hosts have chosen to disable this instruction, returning 0s or predictable results.

How severe is CVE-2011-4574?

CVE-2011-4574 has a CVSS score of 9.8/10 (CRITICAL severity). The EPSS model estimates a 1.05% probability of exploitation in the next 30 days.

How do I fix CVE-2011-4574?

Check the vendor references and advisories linked above for patched versions and mitigation guidance. You can also run a Strix scan to test if your systems are affected.

How Strix Helps

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