CVE-2018-16253

What it is

In sig_verify() in x509.c in axTLS version 2.1.3 and before, the PKCS#1 v1.5 signature verification does not properly verify the ASN.1 metadata. Consequently, a remote attacker can forge signatures when small public exponents are being used, which could lead to impersonation through fake X.509 certificates. This is an even more permissive variant of CVE-2006-4790 and CVE-2014-1568.

At a glance

Exploitability

Can be exploited over the network without logging in. High risk of data tampering.

Exploit odds

0.6% chance of exploitation in the next 30 days (EPSS).

Fix

A patch, advisory or fixed version is referenced. Upgrade or apply it.

Timeline

1. 2018-11-07 20:29 UTC PublishedDisclosed publicly on CVE.org and NVD
2. 2026-06-17 01:43 UTC Last updatedMost recent change to the record

Why it ranks here

• Exploited in the wild: no, CISA does not list it.
• Exploit odds: 0.6% in the next 30 days (EPSS).
• Severity: 5.9 MEDIUM (CVSS).
• Fix: a patch or advisory is linked.

Details

Published

2018-11-07 20:29 UTC

Last modified

2026-06-17 01:43 UTC

Exploit probability

0.6% · EPSS, next 30 days

Weakness

CWE-347

Record status

Modified

Affected

• Axtls Project Axtls ≤ 2.1.3

Attack profile CVSS 3.0 · 5.9

Attack vector

Network

Complexity

High

Privileges needed

None

User interaction

None

Scope

Unchanged

Confidentiality

None

Integrity

High

Availability

None

Is it in your code?

Hand this to your coding agent. It searches your project for the affected products and checks versions. Nothing leaves your machine.

Read https://cve-list.com/agent/cve/CVE-2018-16253.md and follow it. Check whether this project is affected by CVE-2018-16253. Read only. Don't change anything and don't upload my code. Tell me yes, no or not sure, with the file as proof.

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