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CVE-2024-38365 public disclosure (btcd `FindAndDelete` bug)

CVE-2024-38365 public disclosure (btcd `FindAndDelete` bug)

Original Postby David Harding

Posted on: October 10, 2024 23:22 UTC

Public key recovery is a technique utilized within cryptographic systems, which enables the derivation of a public key from a digital signature without needing to access the original public key itself.

This method finds its application in various scenarios, including the development of specific types of scripts that leverage the cryptographic signatures for verification purposes. One practical application of this technique is in the creation of scripts that can perform signature checks. These scripts are designed to not only verify the authenticity of a signature but also to handle additional data. This additional data often includes the signature again, as well as extra padding information, to fulfill certain script requirements or to enhance security measures.

The ability to recover a public key from a signature offers several advantages in blockchain and cryptocurrency technologies, among other fields. It allows for more efficient data storage and transmission solutions, since storing or transmitting the public key alongside the signature becomes unnecessary. Moreover, it enhances security protocols by enabling the validation of transaction authenticity without revealing the public key directly. This is particularly useful in environments where maintaining anonymity or protecting user identities is crucial.

In summary, public key recovery serves the dual purpose of streamlining cryptographic processes and bolstering security measures. By facilitating the extraction of a public key directly from a signature, it simplifies script creation for signature verification and introduces efficiencies in both data handling and security protocol implementation.