CVE-2022-39249
matrix-js-sdk subject to impersonated messages due to permissive key forwarding
Description
Matrix Javascript SDK is the Matrix Client-Server SDK for JavaScript. Prior to version 19.7.0, an attacker cooperating with a malicious homeserver can construct messages appearing to have come from another person. Such messages will be marked with a grey shield on some platforms, but this may be missing in others. This attack is possible due to the matrix-js-sdk implementing a too permissive key forwarding strategy on the receiving end. Starting with version 19.7.0, the default policy for accepting key forwards has been made more strict in the matrix-js-sdk. matrix-js-sdk will now only accept forwarded keys in response to previously issued requests and only from own, verified devices. The SDK now sets a `trusted` flag on the decrypted message upon decryption, based on whether the key used to decrypt the message was received from a trusted source. Clients need to ensure that messages decrypted with a key with `trusted = false` are decorated appropriately, for example, by showing a warning for such messages. This attack requires coordination between a malicious homeserver and an attacker, and those who trust your homeservers do not need a workaround.
How to fix CVE-2022-39249
To remediate CVE-2022-39249, upgrade the affected package to a fixed version below.
- —no fix listed
- —upgrade to 19.7.0 or later
Is CVE-2022-39249 being exploited?
Low — EPSS is 0.5%, meaning exploitation activity has not been observed at scale.
Affected packages (2)
- from 0
- from 0, < 19.7.0