bitcoin-dev

A "Free" Relay Attack Taking Advantage of The Lack of Full-RBF In Core

A "Free" Relay Attack Taking Advantage of The Lack of Full-RBF In Core

Original Postby Anonymous User

Posted on: July 22, 2024 01:59 UTC

The discourse centers on a controversial strategy to address disagreements within the Bitcoin community, particularly concerning the implementation and management of the Bitcoin Core software.

A collective, inspired by Peter Todd's suggestions, contemplates forking Bitcoin Core and implementing a patch that would enable them to execute coordinated attacks on the network. These actions aim to compel miners and mining pools to adopt the forked version to maintain operational efficiency. The strategy involves exploiting the replace-by-fee (RBF) mechanism to disrupt transaction flows, thereby pressuring the Bitcoin Core nodes into a position where they must either adapt or become obsolete.

Furthermore, the conversation touches upon leveraging the RBF feature to provide public utilities like file transfer services or VPNs over the Bitcoin network, which could serve millions and instigate widespread transaction conflicts. This would necessitate wallet services to cease interactions with Bitcoin Core nodes, driving a shift towards the forked version for improved transaction processing and mempool data sharing. The underlying motive is to showcase the resilience of Bitcoin in accommodating divergent viewpoints within its ecosystem, highlighting the democratic essence of differing opinions.

The email also delves into broader concerns regarding cryptocurrency development and security practices. Comparisons are drawn with Ethereum's approach to software development and its robust audit culture, driven partly by significant losses incurred through security breaches. The narrative suggests that if Bitcoin encountered a critical vulnerability, it might prompt a reconsideration of its development practices, potentially pivoting from C/C++ to Rust to enhance security and reliability.

Finally, the author advocates for anonymous participation in discussions within the Bitcoin community, emphasizing the freedom and safety it affords individuals to express contentious or unpopular opinions without fear of backlash. This call for anonymity is rooted in the ongoing mystery of Satoshi Nakamoto's identity and reflects a desire to foster open and fearless dialogue about the future direction of Bitcoin.