CVE-2022-39251: Matrix Javascript SDK vulnerable to Olm/Megolm protocol confusion
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 that legitimately appear to have come from another person, without any indication such as a grey shield. Additionally, a sophisticated attacker cooperating with a malicious homeserver could employ this vulnerability to perform a targeted attack in order to send fake to-device messages appearing to originate from another user. This can allow, for example, to inject the key backup secret during a self-verification, to make a targeted device start using a malicious key backup spoofed by the homeserver. These attacks are possible due to a protocol confusion vulnerability that accepts to-device messages encrypted with Megolm instead of Olm. Starting with version 19.7.0, matrix-js-sdk has been modified to only accept Olm-encrypted to-device messages. Out of caution, several other checks have been audited or added. This attack requires coordination between a malicious home server and an attacker, so those who trust their home servers do not need a workaround.
Other sources
Thunderbird users who use the Matrix chat protocol were vulnerable to an impersonation attack. An adversary could spoof historical messages from other users. Additionally, a malicious key backup to the user's account under certain unusual conditions in order to exfiltrate message keys.
Affected Software
Remediation
Event History
Peer vulnerabilities
Found alongside the following vulnerabilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CVE-2022-39251?
CVE-2022-39251 is a vulnerability that affects Thunderbird users who use the Matrix chat protocol.
How does CVE-2022-39251 impact Thunderbird users?
CVE-2022-39251 allows an adversary to spoof historical messages from other users and exfiltrate message keys.
Which version of Thunderbird is affected by CVE-2022-39251?
Thunderbird version 102.3.1 is affected by CVE-2022-39251.
What is the severity of CVE-2022-39251?
CVE-2022-39251 has a severity rating of high with a value of 7.
How can Thunderbird users protect themselves from CVE-2022-39251?
Users should update Thunderbird to version 102.3.1 or later to protect themselves from CVE-2022-39251.