CVE-2019-16761 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Learn about CVE-2019-16761, a vulnerability in slp-validate@1.0.0 npm package allowing attackers to exploit a discrepancy in SLP consensus rules. Find mitigation steps and impact details here.
The slp-validate@1.0.0 npm package may produce a different validation result compared to the specified SLP consensus rules due to a skillfully designed Bitcoin script. An attacker could exploit this discrepancy to initiate a hard-fork from the SLP consensus.
Understanding CVE-2019-16761
This CVE involves a vulnerability in the slp-validate@1.0.0 npm package that could be exploited by creating a specially crafted Bitcoin script.
What is CVE-2019-16761?
A specially crafted Bitcoin script can cause a discrepancy between the specified SLP consensus rules and the validation result of the slp-validate@1.0.0 npm package.
The Impact of CVE-2019-16761
- CVSS Score: 5.7 (Medium Severity)
- Attack Vector: Network
- Attack Complexity: High
- Privileges Required: High
- User Interaction: Required
- Integrity Impact: High
- Availability Impact: High
- Scope: Unchanged
- Confidentiality Impact: None
Technical Details of CVE-2019-16761
The technical details of the vulnerability in slp-validate@1.0.0:
Vulnerability Description
A specially crafted Bitcoin script can cause a discrepancy between the specified SLP consensus rules and the validation result of the slp-validate@1.0.0 npm package.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Affected Product: slp-validate
- Vendor: simpleledger
- Affected Version: 1.0.0
Exploitation Mechanism
An attacker could create a specially crafted Bitcoin script to exploit the discrepancy and potentially initiate a hard-fork from the SLP consensus.
Mitigation and Prevention
Steps to mitigate and prevent the CVE-2019-16761 vulnerability:
Immediate Steps to Take
- Upgrade to versions greater than 1.0.0, as they have been patched to address the issue.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update software packages to ensure the latest security patches are applied.
- Implement input validation mechanisms to prevent similar vulnerabilities.
Patching and Updates
Ensure that all software components, including dependencies like slp-validate, are regularly updated to the latest secure versions.