CVE-2022-35913 : Security Advisory and Response

A denial-of-service vulnerability labeled as CVE-2022-35913 has been identified in Samourai Wallet Stonewallx2 version 0.99.98e. This CVE allows attackers to disrupt services by exploiting a specific P2P coinjoin scenario. Understanding the impact and technical details of this vulnerability is crucial for taking appropriate mitigation and prevention measures.

Understanding CVE-2022-35913

This section delves into the specifics of the CVE-2022-35913 vulnerability, shedding light on the risks it poses and the systems affected.

What is CVE-2022-35913?

Described as a denial-of-service vulnerability, CVE-2022-35913 affects instances where the attacker and victim must follow each other's paynym in the Samourai Wallet Stonewallx2 0.99.98e. The exploit involves the attacker broadcasting a transaction, spending the inputs used in a Stonewallx2 transaction before the victim can finalize the collaborative transaction. This disrupts the victim’s ability to perform Stonewallx2 transactions, primarily due to the attacker's manipulation of fee rates and signaling.

The Impact of CVE-2022-35913

The impact of CVE-2022-35913 is significant as it can lead to a complete denial of service for users attempting to engage in Stonewallx2 transactions. By manipulating transaction inputs and fee rates, attackers effectively disrupt the collaborative transaction process, rendering victims unable to perform necessary actions.

Technical Details of CVE-2022-35913

This section provides a deeper dive into the technical aspects of the CVE-2022-35913 vulnerability, including the vulnerability description, affected systems and versions, and the exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in Samourai Wallet Stonewallx2 0.99.98e enables attackers to execute denial-of-service attacks through a specific P2P coinjoin method. By exploiting the collaborative transaction process, attackers disrupt the victim's ability to complete Stonewallx2 transactions.

Affected Systems and Versions

The vulnerability impacts Samourai Wallet Stonewallx2 version 0.99.98e, with other versions potentially being susceptible to similar attacks. Users of this specific version are at risk of experiencing denial-of-service disruptions.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers target the Stonewallx2 transaction collaboration process by broadcasting a transaction, spending critical inputs before victims can finalize the transaction. By using specific tactics such as low fee rates and failure to signal opt-in RBF, attackers effectively prevent victims from completing Stonewallx2 transactions.

Mitigation and Prevention

Understanding how to mitigate and prevent the CVE-2022-35913 vulnerability is essential to safeguarding systems and data from potential attacks.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users of Samourai Wallet Stonewallx2 version 0.99.98e should exercise caution when engaging in collaborative Stonewallx2 transactions. Remaining vigilant against suspicious activities and promptly reporting any anomalies can help mitigate the risk of exploitation.

Long-Term Security Practices

Adopting robust security practices, such as regularly updating software, employing multi-factor authentication, and educating users on potential threats, can enhance the overall security posture and reduce the likelihood of successful attacks.

Patching and Updates

Staying up-to-date with security patches and software updates is crucial in addressing known vulnerabilities. Users should ensure that their Samourai Wallet software is regularly patched to prevent exploitation of CVE-2022-35913 and similar threats.