CVE-2018-13673 in GoldTokenERC20
Summary
by MITRE
The mintToken function of a smart contract implementation for GoldTokenERC20, an Ethereum token, has an integer overflow that allows the owner of the contract to set the balance of an arbitrary user to any value.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/28/2020
The vulnerability identified in CVE-2018-13673 represents a critical integer overflow flaw within the mintToken function of the GoldTokenERC20 smart contract implementation on the Ethereum blockchain. This vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and arithmetic handling within the contract's code, specifically affecting the token's minting mechanism that allows contract owners to create new tokens. The flaw exists in the core token functionality that governs how new tokens are issued and distributed to users, creating a pathway for unauthorized manipulation of token balances.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through the mintToken function's failure to properly validate integer values during token creation processes. When the contract owner invokes this function, the underlying code does not adequately check for overflow conditions that could occur when dealing with large numerical values. This allows an attacker with owner privileges to manipulate the token supply mechanism in such a way that arbitrary user balances can be set to any desired value. The vulnerability directly maps to CWE-190, which describes integer overflow and wraparound conditions, and represents a classic example of how improper integer handling in smart contracts can lead to catastrophic security implications.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple balance manipulation, as it fundamentally compromises the integrity of the token economy and the trust model that underpins the Ethereum-based token system. An attacker with access to the contract owner's private keys can essentially create unlimited tokens for themselves or other users, potentially leading to massive dilution of token value or complete system compromise. This vulnerability undermines the fundamental principles of blockchain tokenomics where token balances should be immutable and accurately reflect user holdings. The implications are particularly severe in the context of ERC20 token standards where such vulnerabilities can affect the entire ecosystem of applications and exchanges that rely on accurate token balances for proper operation.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate code remediation through proper integer overflow checking mechanisms that prevent arithmetic operations from exceeding maximum value limits. The implementation should incorporate bounds checking and validation routines that ensure all token minting operations remain within acceptable numerical ranges. Security measures should include thorough code auditing processes that specifically target integer handling and arithmetic operations within smart contracts. Organizations should implement proper access control measures and consider multi-signature wallet implementations to reduce the risk of single points of failure. This vulnerability also highlights the importance of following established security frameworks such as those recommended by the OpenZeppelin security guidelines and emphasizes the need for comprehensive testing including fuzzing and formal verification techniques to identify similar issues in smart contract implementations. The remediation process should involve complete code review and potentially contract redeployment to ensure that all instances of integer overflow vulnerabilities are properly addressed.