bitcoin-dev

Combined summary - Re: A Free-Relay Attack Exploiting RBF Rule #6

Combined summary - Re: A Free-Relay Attack Exploiting RBF Rule #6

The discussion initiated by Peter Todd concerns CVE-2017-12842 and the broader issues surrounding vulnerability disclosure and patching within the Bitcoin Core community.

Todd highlights a critical perspective on the severity of CVE-2017-12842, questioning its practical significance compared to the effort and resources required for exploitation. He raises concerns about certain design choices in projects like Sergio's RSK Bridge contract that could be prone to this vulnerability, implying a deeper issue with how security is approached in some blockchain projects.

The process of disclosing vulnerabilities is a focal point of Todd's message. Despite informing key individuals directly involved with Bitcoin Core, there was a notable lack of action or engagement from these parties. This experience underscores a broader frustration with the traditional vulnerability disclosure process, especially when it involves significant findings related to high-profile projects. Todd suggests that the lack of response and the dismissal of his findings reflect a challenging dynamic within the community, one where political and social factors may influence the handling of technical vulnerabilities.

Furthermore, Todd's recounting touches upon the complex professional relationships and reputations within the Bitcoin Core community, particularly among those working on mempool code. This context sheds light on the potential motivations behind the observed inaction and dismissiveness towards reported vulnerabilities. It appears that navigating these relationships and the associated political landscape is a considerable challenge for those attempting to contribute to the project's security.

Antoine LDK's contribution to the discussion provides additional insights into the nuances of vulnerability disclosure. He contrasts the handling of CVE-2017-12842 with another vulnerability, CVE-2021-31876, highlighting differences in disclosure timelines and approaches to patching. The comparison reveals a preference for more extended disclosure delays to ensure comprehensive feedback and patch development, suggesting a more cautious approach may benefit the community. However, Antoine also acknowledges instances where the response to security findings falls short of ethical information security standards, indicating a recurring challenge in achieving timely and effective vulnerability management.

Overall, the dialogue between Todd and Antoine LDK illustrates the complexities of vulnerability disclosure in the context of Bitcoin Core and similar high-stakes software projects. The experiences shared by both individuals point to systemic issues in how vulnerabilities are addressed, suggesting a need for greater transparency, responsiveness, and collaboration within the community. For further information and updates from Peter Todd, he can be reached through Peter Todd's Website.

Discussion History

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Antoine RiardOriginal Post
March 28, 2024 18:34 UTC
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March 28, 2024 19:16 UTC