Randstorm: Assessing the Impact of Cryptographic Vulnerabilities in JavaScript-Based Cryptocurrency Wallets (2011–2015)

BY KEYHUNTER 03.04.2025

Old Bitcoin addresses generated using JavaScript-based wallet applications may be vulnerable due to a flaw in the cryptographic function used to create private keys. The issue lies in the JavaScript SecureRandom() function, which fails to produce truly random data, resulting in private keys with less than 48 bits of entropy. This low entropy makes the private keys predictable and susceptible to brute-force attacks. Additionally, the function uses the outdated RC4 algorithm, further reducing randomness and security[1][2].

The vulnerability primarily affects Bitcoin addresses created with older versions of wallet apps such as BitAddress (pre-2013) and BitcoinJS (pre-2014). These tools relied on the flawed SecureRandom() function or libraries like jsbn.js, which also inherited issues from unreliable pseudo-random number generators like Math.random. Consequently, wallets generated during this period are at risk of being hacked, with attackers potentially able to crack private keys within a week[1][4].

Researchers recommend users who generated Bitcoin addresses using affected tools to move their funds to new addresses created with updated and secure tools. This precaution ensures the safety of assets from vulnerabilities tied to outdated cryptographic methods[1][2][4].

Summary

A cryptographic flaw in JavaScript’s SecureRandom() function exposes old Bitcoin addresses to brute-force attacks due to predictable private key generation. Wallets created before 2014 using tools like BitAddress and BitcoinJS are particularly vulnerable. Users should transfer funds to new addresses generated with secure methods to mitigate risks.

To identify if your Bitcoin wallet uses the SecureRandom() function, follow these steps:

1. Check the wallet’s generation period

Wallets created between 2011 and 2015 are more likely to use the flawed SecureRandom() function, especially if they were generated using web-based tools or JavaScript libraries like BitcoinJS or BitAddress during this time[1][2].

2. Investigate the wallet software or library

  • Research the underlying technology of your wallet. If it uses libraries such as jsbn.js or BitcoinJS (pre-2014 versions), it might rely on SecureRandom() for random number generation[1][2].
  • Look for documentation or source code of the wallet software. Open-source wallets often provide details about their cryptographic methods.

3. Use online tools

Platforms like KeyBleed (www.keybleed.com) can help determine if your wallet is vulnerable to issues like the Randstorm flaw, which stems from SecureRandom()[1].

4. Analyze transaction vulnerabilities

If your wallet has generated private keys with low entropy, you may notice repeated or predictable patterns in transaction signatures (e.g., “colliding R values” in ECDSA)[3]. This could indicate the use of a weak random number generator.

5. Consult experts

Cryptocurrency security firms, such as Unciphered, specialize in identifying vulnerabilities like Randstorm and can assist in analyzing your wallet’s security[2].

Summary

Bitcoin wallets created between 2011 and 2015 using JavaScript libraries like BitcoinJS or BitAddress may rely on the insecure SecureRandom() function. To check, investigate the wallet’s generation period, software documentation, use online vulnerability scanners, or consult cryptocurrency security experts. If affected, transfer funds to a new wallet generated with secure tools.

If your Bitcoin wallet is affected by the SecureRandom() vulnerability, securing your funds involves several critical steps:

1. Immediate Action

  • Disconnect from the Internet: Immediately disconnect any devices connected to the wallet from the internet to prevent further unauthorized access.
  • Change Passwords: Update passwords for all accounts linked to your wallet to block potential intruders.

2. Transfer Funds

  • Create a New Wallet: Use a secure method to create a new wallet, preferably a hardware wallet like Trezor or Ledger, which offers robust security against online threats.
  • Transfer Funds: Move your Bitcoin funds from the vulnerable wallet to the new one as soon as possible.

3. Notify Relevant Parties

  • Inform Wallet Provider: Notify your wallet provider or relevant support teams about the suspected breach so they can assist in securing your account.
  • Notify Exchanges: If you use cryptocurrency exchanges, inform them about the compromise. They may be able to freeze your account or assist in recovering lost funds.

4. Enhance Security Measures

  • Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Activate 2FA for your new wallet and any linked accounts to add an extra layer of security.
  • Use Strong Passwords: Ensure all passwords are complex and unique, combining letters, numbers, and special characters.
  • Regularly Update Software: Keep your wallet software and devices updated with the latest security patches.

5. Backup and Store Securely

  • Backup Your Wallet: Regularly back up your new wallet data and store it securely, using multiple locations for redundancy.
  • Encrypt Backups: Encrypt any backups stored online to protect against theft.
  • Store Recovery Phrases Safely: Keep recovery phrases or private keys in a secure, offline location.

6. Consider Professional Help

  • If you’re unsure about securing your wallet or have already experienced a breach, consider hiring a cybersecurity expert to assess and improve your security measures.

Summary

Securing Bitcoin funds affected by the SecureRandom() vulnerability involves immediate action to prevent further access, transferring funds to a secure wallet, notifying relevant parties, enhancing security measures, backing up data securely, and considering professional help if needed.

Currently, there are no specific tools widely available to directly check if your Bitcoin addresses are vulnerable to the SecureRandom() flaw. However, you can use various blockchain analysis tools to assess the security and activity of your Bitcoin addresses:

Blockchain Explorers

  • Blockchain.com Explorer: Allows you to view transaction details and wallet activities, which can help identify suspicious patterns.
  • Blockchair: Provides detailed blockchain data, useful for tracking transactions and wallet balances.

Crypto Analytics Tools

  • These tools can help track on-chain transactions and identify potential vulnerabilities, though they are more focused on tracking tainted coins or suspicious activity rather than specific vulnerabilities like SecureRandom().

Security Scanners

  • Trust Wallet Security Scanner: While not specifically designed to detect SecureRandom() vulnerabilities, it assesses address reputation and detects malicious activity, which can indirectly help identify risks.

Community Resources

  • BitcoinTalk Forums: Users sometimes share scripts or methods to check for vulnerabilities, but these are not standardized tools.

Actionable Steps

Given the lack of specific tools for checking SecureRandom() vulnerabilities, the best course of action is to:

  • Assume Vulnerability: If your wallet was created before 2014 using JavaScript-based tools, assume it might be vulnerable.
  • Transfer Funds: Move your Bitcoin funds to a new wallet created with secure methods.
  • Use Secure Wallets: Prefer hardware wallets like Trezor or Ledger for enhanced security.

Summary

While there are no specific tools to check for SecureRandom() vulnerabilities, using blockchain explorers and security scanners can help monitor wallet activity. The safest approach is to transfer funds to a new, securely generated wallet if you suspect vulnerability.

Citations:
[1] https://www.reddit.com/r/BitcoinBeginners/comments/j17we9/is_there_a_way_to_check_blacklisted_bitcoin/
[2] https://trustwallet.com/blog/security/what-are-crypto-wallet-drainers
[3] https://www.ledger.com/academy/topics/crypto/best-bitcoin-crypto-wallet-tracker-tools
[4] https://github.com/ZenGo-X/big-spender
[5] https://github.com/aaarghhh/awesome_osint_blockchain_analysis
[6] https://www.kaspersky.com/blog/vulnerability-in-hot-cryptowallets-from-2011-2015/49943/
[7] https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=977070.0
[8] https://btrace.amlcrypto.io

Citations:
[1] https://www.rapidinnovation.io/post/cryptocurrency-wallet-security-best-practices-and-tips
[2] https://www.eydle.com/essential-tips-to-secure-your-cryptocurrency-wallet/
[3] https://www.globalsign.com/en/blog/sg/steps-to-make-your-bitcoin-wallet-safe-and-secure
[4] https://bitcoin.org/en/secure-your-wallet
[5] https://www.investopedia.com/how-to-store-cryptocurrency-7500942
[6] https://www.kraken.com/learn/how-keep-crypto-safe
[7] https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/how-secure-your-crypto-wallet-against-hacks-10-tips-cryptocurrency
[8] https://volet.com/blog/post/crypto-wallet-security-protecting-your-assets-from-hacks-and-theft-01jhqtrrazewbxen9rcqzyay73

Citations:
[1] https://medium.com/neptune-mutual/is-your-crypto-safe-from-randstorm-vulnerability-cffb079102c9
[2] https://www.techtarget.com/searchsecurity/news/366559456/Cryptocurrency-wallets-might-be-vulnerable-to-Randstorm-flaw
[3] https://crypto.stackexchange.com/questions/9694/technical-details-of-attack-on-android-bitcoin-usage-of-securerandom

Citations:
[1] https://crypto.news/vulnerability-in-javascript-function-may-mean-long-term-bitcoin-hodlers-are-at-risk/
[2] https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/news/security/old-javascript-crypto-flaw-puts-bitcoin-funds-at-risk/
[3] https://www.quicknode.com/guides/other-chains/bitcoin/how-to-generate-a-new-bitcoin-address-in-javascript
[4] https://www.kaspersky.com/blog/vulnerability-in-hot-cryptowallets-from-2011-2015/49943/
[5] https://dev.to/mibii/from-mnemonic-to-bitcoin-addresses-in-javascript-1dmp
[6] https://github.com/jprichardson/procbits.com/blob/master/articles/2013/08/generating-a-bitcoin-address-with-javascript.md
[7] https://www.npmjs.com/package/btc-bitcoinjs-lib
[8] https://www.npmjs.com/package/@asoltys/bitcoinjs-lib