The standard method for signing binaries is known as Pretty Good Privacy (PGP). A forged file that changes a single bit can be detected with this system, as can a developer who attempts to apply an invalid signature. Users verify the download using the developer’s public key. The developer signs a download with a private key. The same idea can be applied to software downloads. Many Bitcoin users are familiar with the idea of digital signatures. The phishing site was followed as the first advertising link from a Google search. For example, in 2017 a Reddit user reported that a phishing site was deploying malware through a forged copy of Electrum, resulting in the loss of five bitcoin. The loss is irreversible and can be life-changing. When the unwitting user enters the private key or seed, the wallet steals the funds. Then they distribute the result, which looks identical to the authentic version. They begin by tweaking some of the open source code. This makes Bitcoin wallets especially profitable targets for malware authors. The Threat of MalwareĪny piece of software that handles your private keys can steal them or sign transactions you never authorized. A procedure for verifying Electrum on Windows is also available.
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This tutorial describes how to do so on OSX. To reduce the risk of running malware, users can verify the authenticity of Electrum downloads before using them. Users running this software are trusting their private keys to it. Electrum is one of Bitcoin’s oldest and best-known wallets.