Crypt::Random: Use of Cryptographically Weak Pseudo-Random Number Generator (PRNG)
CVE-2025-1828 is a high-severity use of cryptographically weak pseudo-random number generator (PRNG) vulnerability in Crypt::Random from Perl, with a CVSS 3.1 base score of 8.8 out of 10. It can be exploited remotely over the network by an unauthenticated attacker, but only if a user takes part, for example by opening a link or file. The record lists version 1.56 as the first without the flaw, so updating Crypt::Random to that release or later removes the exposure. There is no confirmed exploitation so far. EPSS estimates a 0.41% chance of exploitation within 30 days, which is low compared with other CVEs.
High severity with no evidence of exploitation so far.
What to do
- Update Crypt::Random to 1.56 or a later version.
- Until you can update, restrict network access to the affected service so it is not reachable from untrusted networks.
- Because the attack needs a user to take part, warn users about unexpected links and files related to this product until it is patched.
Affected products and versions
| Vendor | Product | Affected versions | Fixed in |
|---|---|---|---|
| Perl | Crypt::Random | 1.05 up to, but not including, 1.56 | 1.56 |
| Timlegge | Crypt | 1.05 through 1.55 | Not stated |
Version data comes from the organisation that assigned the CVE. Confirm against the vendor advisory before deciding you are unaffected.
How the severity score breaks down
- Attack vector
- NetworkCan be exploited remotely over a network, including the internet.
- Attack complexity
- LowNo special conditions are needed; the attack works reliably.
- Privileges required
- NoneNo account or login is needed.
- User interaction
- RequiredA user must take an action such as opening a file or link.
- Scope
- UnchangedImpact stays within the vulnerable component.
- Confidentiality
- HighAll data handled by the component can be read.
- Integrity
- HighData or code can be modified at will.
- Availability
- HighThe component can be taken down completely.
Vector: CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:N/UI:R/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H. Scored by CISA (ADP).
Official description
Crypt::Random Perl package 1.05 through 1.55 may use rand() function, which is not cryptographically strong, for cryptographic functions. If the Provider is not specified and /dev/urandom or an Entropy Gathering Daemon (egd) service is not available Crypt::Random will default to use the insecure Crypt::Random::rand provider. In particular, Windows versions of perl will encounter this issue by default.
Source: the CVE record as published by its numbering authority, via NVD and CVE.org.
The underlying weakness: Use of Cryptographically Weak Pseudo-Random Number Generator (PRNG)
The product uses a Pseudo-Random Number Generator (PRNG) in a security context, but the PRNG's algorithm is not cryptographically strong.
How developers prevent this class of flaw
- Use functions or hardware which use a hardware-based random number generation for all crypto. This is the recommended solution. Use CyptGenRandom on Windows, or hw_rand() on Linux.
More Use of Cryptographically Weak Pseudo-Random Number Generator (PRNG) vulnerabilities (CWE-338)
Timeline
- CVE record published.
- CISA published its SSVC assessment (exploitation: none, automatable: no, technical impact: total).
- Record last changed materially (score, affected products, status or references).
References
Patches and release notes
Recent Use of Cryptographically Weak Pseudo-Random Number Generator (PRNG) vulnerabilities
- 9.8 Critical severity
- 7.5 High severity
- 8.8 High severity
- 9.1 Critical severity
- 7.5 High severity
- 7.5 High severity
Spotted an error? Tell us.