CWE-333: Improper Handling of Insufficient Entropy in TRNG
True random number generators (TRNG) generally have a limited source of entropy and therefore can fail or block.
How it's found
Improper Handling of Insufficient Entropy in TRNG is a specific, narrowly defined instance of a broader pattern. Testers confirm it with targeted code review and a proof-of-concept input that exercises the exact code path this weakness describes.
The rate at which true random numbers can be generated is limited. It is important that one uses them only when they are needed for security.
Consequences
- DoS: Crash, Exit, or Restart: A program may crash or block if it runs out of random numbers.
Mitigations
- Implementation: Rather than failing on a lack of random numbers, it is often preferable to wait for more numbers to be created.
Where this fits in a TurboPentest engagement
TurboPentest's agentic pentest is powerful and covers a broad range of issues automatically. This particular class is best confirmed in a manual IntegSec engagement, where human pentesters apply deeper methodology and a larger context window than any automated pass.
Frequently asked questions
What is CWE-333?
True random number generators (TRNG) generally have a limited source of entropy and therefore can fail or block.
How do you find Improper Handling of Insufficient Entropy in TRNG?
Improper Handling of Insufficient Entropy in TRNG is a specific, narrowly defined instance of a broader pattern. Testers confirm it with targeted code review and a proof-of-concept input that exercises the exact code path this weakness describes.
What is the impact of CWE-333?
DoS: Crash, Exit, or Restart: A program may crash or block if it runs out of random numbers.
Does TurboPentest test for Improper Handling of Insufficient Entropy in TRNG?
TurboPentest's agentic pentest is powerful and covers a broad range of issues automatically. This particular class is best confirmed in a manual IntegSec engagement, where human pentesters apply deeper methodology and a larger context window than any automated pass.
Related CWEs
About this reference
These security references are maintained by IntegSec, an offensive-security firm whose team holds CISSP, OSCP, and OSCE certifications and has run thousands of penetration tests. Content is kept current as tools, standards, and attack techniques evolve.
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