CVE-2008-0166
HighPublic exploitOpenSSL 0.9.8c-1 up to versions before 0.9.8g-9 on Debian-based operating systems uses a random number generator that generates predictable numbers, which makes it easier for remote attackers to conduct brute force guessing attacks against cryptographic keys.
Published May 13, 2008 · Updated Aug 4, 2026 · Also known as DEBIAN-CVE-2008-0166
Key Facts
Patch immediately- CVE-2008-0166 is a high-severity vulnerability (CVSS 7.5 v3.1) affecting Openssl, Ubuntu Linux (Canonical), Debian Linux and 3 more products.
- It is not listed in any known-exploited vulnerabilities catalog. Public exploit code is available.
- EPSS estimates a 71% probability of exploitation in the next 30 days.
- Fixed versions are available, including openssh 1:4.3p2-9etch2, openssh 4.7p1-9, Openssl 0.9.8c-4etch3.
- Brandefense priority: patch immediately, because it is very likely to be exploited soon.
CVSS v3.1
7.5
CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:N/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:N/A:N
EPSS (30-day exploit likelihood)
71%
Higher than 99.3% of all scored CVEs
Exploited in the wild
No known
Not in a known-exploited catalog
Public exploit code
Available
Proof-of-concept or weaponized module
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Description
OpenSSL 0.9.8c-1 up to versions before 0.9.8g-9 on Debian-based operating systems uses a random number generator that generates predictable numbers, which makes it easier for remote attackers to conduct brute force guessing attacks against cryptographic keys.
Affected Products
33 affected entries in total| Product | Affected versions | Fixed in |
|---|---|---|
| OpensslOpenssl | See advisory | 0.9.8g |
| Ubuntu LinuxCanonical | 6.06, 7.04, 7.10, 8.04 | n/a |
| Debian LinuxDebian | 4.0 | n/a |
| opensshdebian | See advisory | 4.7p1-9 |
| rootio-opensshrootio | See advisory | 4.7p1-9 |
Patched Releases
openssh
1:4.3p2-9etch2, 4.7p1-9
Openssl
0.9.8c-4etch3, 0.9.8g-9, 0.9.8g
rootio-openssh
4.7p1-9
rootio-openssl
0.9.8g-9
Timeline
Publicly disclosed
May 13, 2008
Last updated
Aug 4, 2026
Weakness Type
- CWE-338 Use of Cryptographically Weak Pseudo-Random Number Generator (PRNG)
References
FAQ
Common Questions.
OpenSSL 0.9.8c-1 up to versions before 0.9.8g-9 on Debian-based operating systems uses a random number generator that generates predictable numbers, which makes it easier for remote attackers to conduct brute force guessing attacks against cryptographic keys.
Affected: Openssl; Ubuntu Linux (Canonical) versions 6.06, 7.04, 7.10, 8.04; Debian Linux versions 4.0, among others. The full list is in the CVE brief.
It is not listed in any known-exploited vulnerabilities catalog.
No, it is not currently listed in the CISA Known Exploited Vulnerabilities catalog.
Public exploit code is available.
Fixed versions are available, including openssh 1:4.3p2-9etch2, openssh 4.7p1-9, Openssl 0.9.8c-4etch3.
Brandefense priority: patch immediately, because it is very likely to be exploited soon.
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