CVE-2021-3449
NULL pointer deref in signature_algorithms processing
- Published
- Mar 25, 2021
- Updated
- Sep 17, 2024
- Assigning CNA
- openssl
- Evidence observed
- Aug 4, 2026
Primary CVSS
nvd · CVSS 3.1
CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:H/PR:N/UI:N/S:U/C:N/I:N/A:HHigh · next 30 days
- Percentile
- 99.2%
- Model date
- Sep 21, 2026
EPSS is a statistical estimate, not a certainty or a measure of impact. Combine it with CVSS, KEV status, exposure and your environment.
Summary
An OpenSSL TLS server may crash if sent a maliciously crafted renegotiation ClientHello message from a client. If a TLSv1.2 renegotiation ClientHello omits the signature_algorithms extension (where it was present in the initial ClientHello), but includes a signature_algorithms_cert extension then a NULL pointer dereference will result, leading to a crash and a denial of service attack. A server is only vulnerable if it has TLSv1.2 and renegotiation enabled (which is the default configuration). OpenSSL TLS clients are not impacted by this issue. All OpenSSL 1.1.1 versions are affected by this issue. Users of these versions should upgrade to OpenSSL 1.1.1k. OpenSSL 1.0.2 is not impacted by this issue. Fixed in OpenSSL 1.1.1k (Affected 1.1.1-1.1.1j).
Sources
1- cve-2021-3449Exploit
CVE-2021-3449 OpenSSL denial-of-service exploit 👨🏻💻
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