CVE-2023-50475 in bcoin
Summary
by MITRE • 12/21/2023
An issue was discovered in bcoin-org bcoin version 2.2.0, allows remote attackers to obtain sensitive information via weak hashing algorithms in the component \vendor\faye-websocket.js.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/14/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-50475 affects the bcoin cryptocurrency framework version 2.2.0 and specifically targets the endoraye-websocket.js component. This issue represents a significant security concern as it exposes the system to potential information disclosure attacks through the use of weak cryptographic hashing algorithms. The bcoin framework is a full node implementation of the bitcoin protocol written in javascript, making it a critical component in bitcoin infrastructure and network operations. When remote attackers exploit this vulnerability, they can potentially access sensitive information that should remain protected within the system's cryptographic operations.
The technical flaw stems from the implementation of weak hashing algorithms within the websocket communication module of the bcoin framework. Weak hashing algorithms typically refer to cryptographic functions that are either outdated, have known vulnerabilities, or do not provide sufficient entropy to prevent reverse engineering or collision attacks. In the context of websocket communications, this weakness could allow attackers to intercept and analyze transmitted data, potentially extracting private keys, transaction details, or other sensitive operational information. The vulnerability specifically impacts the endoraye-websocket.js file which handles websocket connections and data transmission within the bcoin node architecture. This component is responsible for maintaining real-time communication between the node and external clients, making it a prime target for information gathering attacks.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it can compromise the integrity and confidentiality of the entire bcoin node operation. Attackers exploiting this weakness could gain insights into network topology, transaction patterns, and potentially even the private keys associated with wallet operations. This represents a critical risk for nodes operating in production environments where security and privacy are paramount. The vulnerability affects not only individual node operators but also the broader bitcoin network as compromised nodes can potentially disrupt the decentralized trust model that underpins cryptocurrency operations. According to CWE standards, this vulnerability aligns with CWE-327, which addresses the use of weak cryptographic algorithms, and CWE-200, which covers exposure of sensitive information. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that websocket communications are often used for real-time monitoring and management of node operations, making the attack vector highly relevant in practical network scenarios.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate remediation through version updates to bcoin 2.2.1 or later, which would contain the patched implementation of cryptographic functions. Organizations should also implement network monitoring to detect potential exploitation attempts and consider implementing additional security layers such as TLS encryption for websocket communications. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1552, which deals with unsecured credentials, and T1041, which addresses data encryption for exfiltration. Security teams should conduct comprehensive audits of their websocket implementations and ensure that all cryptographic functions meet current industry standards such as those outlined in NIST SP 800-57 and FIPS 140-2. Additionally, implementing proper access controls and network segmentation around websocket endpoints can help limit the potential impact of exploitation attempts. Regular security assessments and dependency updates should be prioritized to prevent similar vulnerabilities from emerging in other components of the bcoin framework or related infrastructure.