Beware of the eth_sign Eyewash: Principles, Techniques, and Preventive Measures

Recently, the eyewash of eth_sign signatures has frequently appeared, with many users being lured into performing seemingly harmless eth_sign signatures on unknown websites, resulting in the loss of wallet assets. To help everyone better understand the operational mechanism of this eyewash, we need to first understand the essence of eth_sign signatures.

Introduction to eth_sign Signing

eth_sign is a widely used signing method in Ethereum that allows users to sign messages using their private keys. This mechanism is at the core of blockchain transactions, used to prove that a specific account initiated a transaction. In simple terms, it is similar to signing a document to indicate agreement or support.

However, there is an easily overlooked issue during the use of eth_sign, known as "blind signing". When users sign a message with eth_sign, they often do not fully understand the content of the signature, nor can they reverse-verify the specific meaning of the signature. This is because the input to eth_sign is raw characters, rather than a human-readable format. It is akin to signing a contract written in a foreign language, hence it is referred to as "blind signing".

Common Eyewash Techniques

After understanding the concepts of eth_sign signatures and blind signatures, we can delve into the potential risks of eth_sign and the precautions to take.

Since eth_sign can be used to sign various messages, including transactions and smart contract instructions, malicious parties may induce users to sign messages that they do not fully understand, thereby transferring assets. More seriously, they may provide seemingly harmless messages for users to sign, which are actually operational instructions. Once signed, the user's assets can be transferred.

In response to this situation, some wallet applications have upgraded their risk control systems in the new version. When users invoke eth_sign for message signing through third-party applications, the wallet will pop up a risk warning window to remind users that the current transaction may have potential risks and initiate a 15-second countdown cooldown. This design aims to give users ample time to assess the necessity and security of the signing operation.

Security Recommendations

To protect asset security, users should pay attention to the following points:

1. Be cautious of all requests that require signing with eth_sign, especially those from unknown or untrusted sources. If you have any doubts about the authenticity or purpose of a request, do not sign it lightly.

2. Ensure that the messages or transaction requests you handle come from trusted sources, such as official websites, official social media, or verified communication channels. Do not trust links, emails, or private messages from unknown sources.

3. Use a wallet application that supports risk warning features, carefully read the warning information during the signing operation, and consider it thoroughly before deciding whether to continue.

4. Regularly pay attention to blockchain security news to understand the latest eyewash methods and preventive measures, and enhance your own security awareness.

5. In case of uncertainty, seek help from professionals or the community, and do not make decisions that may affect asset security on your own.

By staying vigilant, understanding potential risks, and taking appropriate preventive measures, users can significantly reduce the likelihood of becoming a victim of the eth_sign signature eyewash. In the blockchain world, being cautious and continuously learning is key to protecting one's assets.