CVE-2022-41340 in secp256k1-js
Summary
by MITRE • 09/25/2022
The secp256k1-js package before 1.1.0 for Node.js implements ECDSA without required r and s validation, leading to signature forgery.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/23/2022
The secp256k1-js package vulnerability represents a critical cryptographic flaw that undermines the security of digital signatures in Node.js applications. This vulnerability affects versions prior to 1.1.0 and specifically targets the implementation of the Elliptic Curve Digital Signature Algorithm within the secp256k1 elliptic curve. The issue stems from the package's failure to properly validate the r and s components of ECDSA signatures during the verification process, creating a pathway for malicious actors to forge valid signatures that would otherwise be rejected by proper cryptographic implementations.
The technical flaw manifests in the absence of proper range validation for the signature components r and s, which are fundamental elements of ECDSA signatures. In a properly implemented ECDSA system, both r and s values must fall within specific mathematical bounds to ensure the signature's validity and prevent exploitation. When these validations are omitted, attackers can manipulate the signature values to create forged signatures that pass verification checks, effectively bypassing the cryptographic security mechanisms. This vulnerability directly maps to CWE-310, which addresses cryptographic weaknesses related to improper validation of cryptographic parameters, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1552.001 for unsecured cryptographic storage and T1552.004 for credentials in registry.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends across numerous Node.js applications that rely on secp256k1-js for cryptographic operations, particularly those involved in blockchain transactions, digital identity verification, and secure communications. Applications using affected versions may experience unauthorized access, data manipulation, or fraudulent transaction processing, as attackers can forge signatures for legitimate operations. The vulnerability is especially concerning in cryptocurrency wallets, smart contracts, and any system where digital signatures are used to authenticate transactions or verify data integrity. Attackers could exploit this weakness to impersonate users, modify transaction data, or gain unauthorized access to protected resources, potentially resulting in significant financial losses and reputational damage to affected organizations.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2022-41340 require immediate updates to the secp256k1-js package to version 1.1.0 or later, which includes proper validation of signature components. Organizations should conduct comprehensive inventory assessments to identify all systems utilizing vulnerable versions and implement automated monitoring for similar cryptographic vulnerabilities. Security teams should also consider implementing additional signature validation layers and conducting regular cryptographic audits to ensure proper implementation of elliptic curve operations. The remediation process should include thorough testing of updated implementations to verify that signature validation works correctly without introducing performance regressions or compatibility issues in existing applications.