CVE-2020-19768 in ICOVO
Summary
by MITRE • 09/08/2021
A lack of target address verification in the selfdestructs() function of ICOVO 1.0 allows attackers to steal tokens from victim users via a crafted script.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/10/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2020-19768 represents a critical security flaw in the ICOVO 1.0 smart contract implementation that stems from inadequate input validation within the selfdestructs() function. This vulnerability operates at the intersection of smart contract security and decentralized finance protocols where token transfers occur. The core issue manifests when the selfdestructs() function fails to properly verify the target address before executing token transfers, creating an exploitable condition that can be leveraged by malicious actors to siphon funds from unsuspecting users. The flaw specifically resides in the absence of proper address validation mechanisms that should ensure the destination of token transfers aligns with expected parameters and user intentions.
This vulnerability directly maps to CWE-20, which describes improper input validation, and can be categorized under the broader ATT&CK framework as a privilege escalation technique through smart contract manipulation. The technical execution of this attack involves crafting a malicious script that exploits the missing verification step in the selfdestructs() function, allowing attackers to redirect tokens to addresses they control rather than the intended recipients. The flaw essentially removes the necessary authorization checks that should validate whether the target address is legitimate and authorized for receiving the transferred tokens. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous in token-based systems where users trust the smart contract to handle their assets securely and according to predefined rules.
The operational impact of CVE-2020-19768 extends beyond simple financial loss, as it fundamentally undermines user trust in the platform and exposes the entire ecosystem to potential cascading effects. When attackers successfully exploit this vulnerability, they can drain tokens from multiple users simultaneously, creating a significant financial impact on both individual users and the overall platform stability. The vulnerability's exploitation requires minimal technical expertise, making it particularly dangerous as it can be weaponized by attackers with basic scripting capabilities. The lack of proper address verification creates a persistent risk that remains active until the underlying smart contract is patched or replaced, potentially affecting all token transfers that occur through the vulnerable function.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate implementation of comprehensive address validation mechanisms within the selfdestructs() function and related token transfer operations. Organizations should implement strict input validation that verifies target addresses against whitelisted domains or predefined criteria before executing any token transfers. The solution involves adding explicit checks that ensure addresses meet security requirements and are authorized for receiving tokens. Additionally, regular smart contract audits should be conducted to identify similar validation gaps in other functions, as this vulnerability demonstrates the importance of thorough security testing for all contract operations. The fix should also include proper logging and monitoring capabilities to detect anomalous transfer patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts, ensuring that the system can respond quickly to potential security incidents while maintaining the integrity of user assets and platform operations.