Author

Topic: Jade DIY hardware wallet (Read 580 times)

sr. member
Activity: 406
Merit: 896
April 05, 2024, 04:56:17 PM
#53
I should think about it twice before questioning Blockstream for their lack of research.  Tongue

Especially since the founder has invented the core mining mechanism of bitcoin  Tongue

Seriously though, nice catch and nice study. You have provided us with some knowledge.
legendary
Activity: 1344
Merit: 6415
Farewell, Leo
April 05, 2024, 03:30:46 PM
#52
Feel free to add something more if you want to.
As it turns out, I was not totally right.

It doesn't directly use libsecp256k1, indeed, but it does use secp256k1-zkp, which is a fork of the former. As you can see in here, it says that their EC library calls secp256k1_surjectionproof_verify() and secp256k1_rangeproof_verify(), which are defined only over secp256k1-zkp. You can verify by searching in libsecp256k1 (empty) and in secp256k1-zkp (non-empty).

I should think about it twice before questioning Blockstream for their lack of research.  Tongue
legendary
Activity: 2730
Merit: 7065
Farewell, Leo. You will be missed!
April 05, 2024, 10:15:47 AM
#51
the address generation process is a core process, which, I hope, has been tested by both software unit tests and human tests. I can't believe that there will be a flaw in such an important aspect of the software.
I didn't mean there would be flaws in it b default. I am sure we would have heard about it by now. The Jade doesn't have the userbase of Trezor or Ledger, but whatever it's got, we would have heard about something like that.

The bugs I was speculating about could perhaps be the result of certain software/hardware issues and not a scenario you would see if everything was working top-notch.

I checked Jade's github repository a little bit. It doesn't use libsecp256k1 as the library for performing elliptic curve operations, at least as far as I can see. It isn't a very good sign, considering that it's the most tested library for that sensitive purpose, and used by the most reputable pieces of software like Bitcoin Core.

To me the portion of the project that is cryptography-related is the most crucial. I wouldn't care if the UI had a bug. However, if there's a bug in cryptography like a non-random R-value in a signature, that can be catastrophic. But, again, I'm not totally sure they use another reputable library for EC operations.
This is a question and topic that should be directed to their customer service team, instructing them to push it further to their development team to clarify. I will do it during the weekend if I don't forget. Feel free to add something more if you want to.
legendary
Activity: 1344
Merit: 6415
Farewell, Leo
April 05, 2024, 09:50:08 AM
#50
It is a realistic scenario, but not a likely to happen scenario. I mean, bugs can be found in the code, but the address generation process is a core process, which, I hope, has been tested by both software unit tests and human tests. I can't believe that there will be a flaw in such an important aspect of the software.
I checked Jade's github repository a little bit. It doesn't use libsecp256k1 as the library for performing elliptic curve operations, at least as far as I can see. It isn't a very good sign, considering that it's the most tested library for that sensitive purpose, and used by the most reputable pieces of software like Bitcoin Core.

To me the portion of the project that is cryptography-related is the most crucial. I wouldn't care if the UI had a bug. However, if there's a bug in cryptography like a non-random R-value in a signature, that can be catastrophic. But, again, I'm not totally sure they use another reputable library for EC operations.
sr. member
Activity: 406
Merit: 896
April 05, 2024, 02:53:33 AM
#49
This is how I would approach the question.
Also, I am irrationally risk-averse when it comes to losing Bitcoin (I said irrationally!) so I would further lower that threshold.

Some bad feeling likely remains with a device that showed signs of unreliability. A one-time bad day I would brush off, kind of.

You are both correct. And since I have been asked the question a lot, about why I keep trusting the device and why I still use it, I want to make something clear.

1. I can read and understand C, so I feel confident reading the code. Which is important for me.
2. My usage is pretty limited. Once a month, I scan a private key QR code, I sign a transaction (usually a pretty small one), I erase the memory of the device (using temporary signer option).
3. Blockstream doesn't know my address, nor my name, since I received the product elsewhere, where I don't have the ability to access now, so if I request a change, or buy a new one, I will need to use my real name and address.
4. I own other devices that I use for more frequent transactions.
5. I always know that my backups are safe.
6. I always use QR codes, which is safer than USB cables. Still, QR codes are not a panacea, but, you know, I feel more confident.
7. The Jade is a reputable device.

Warning:
Finally, always be very cautious when it comes to using browser-based products (software & updates). Always verify what you download. Always think twice before downloading something.
legendary
Activity: 2114
Merit: 15144
Fully fledged Merit Cycler - Golden Feather 22-23
April 05, 2024, 02:26:51 AM
#48
I still don’t get it.

What is the risk of a fatal hardware malfunction once you have witnessed something like that one apogio experienced? 0.1%?
1 BTC is 70,000 USD.
1 Jade costs roughly 100 USD.

So 100 USD /0.001/70,000 USDBTC≈1.42 BTC

Ok, then it is not worth handling UTXO bigger than 1.42 BTC with such an hardware.
Provided you already have a functioning backup of the seed phrase (Master key).

This is how I would approach the question.
Also, I am irrationally risk-averse when it comes to losing Bitcoin (I said irrationally!) so I would further lower that threshold.
sr. member
Activity: 406
Merit: 896
April 05, 2024, 02:24:42 AM
#47
The worst thing I can think of from the top of my head is that it somehow starts generating addresses whose coins you can never spend (sign) because of a serious bug. Of course, I am just throwing ideas out there, and I don't think it's a realistic scenario.

It is a realistic scenario, but not a likely to happen scenario. I mean, bugs can be found in the code, but the address generation process is a core process, which, I hope, has been tested by both software unit tests and human tests. I can't believe that there will be a flaw in such an important aspect of the software.

What can happen though, is that someone can use a fake website to update their firmware and that the installed software can be malicious. This is a huge problem if it happens... I hope that the device won't work with the fake website, but since I am a developer and not a security person, I don't know how easy this scenario is.
hero member
Activity: 714
Merit: 1010
Crypto Swap Exchange
April 04, 2024, 04:44:44 PM
#46
The worst thing I can think of from the top of my head is that it somehow starts generating addresses whose coins you can never spend (sign) because of a serious bug.

Something of that category came to my mind, too. I don't say lightly, I'm not scared or not concerned. I would mostly assume, if a device starts to act wonky, it would produce enough garbage that errors creep in quickly that the network would simply reject a funky transaction, hopefully! But your described nightmare may still be possible if things go when Murphy takes over as he always does.

Some bad feeling likely remains with a device that showed signs of unreliability. A one-time bad day I would brush off, kind of.
legendary
Activity: 2730
Merit: 7065
Farewell, Leo. You will be missed!
April 04, 2024, 11:34:49 AM
#45
I know, that's the purpuse and part of the security model of those signing devices. You still want to be sure that after you re-instantiate your wallet, everything from that point of usage of the device is working reliably.
He can always fall back on his backup phrase in case the device starts acting up or becomes unusable for the purpose it was designed for (signing transactions). The worst thing I can think of from the top of my head is that it somehow starts generating addresses whose coins you can never spend (sign) because of a serious bug. Of course, I am just throwing ideas out there, and I don't think it's a realistic scenario.
sr. member
Activity: 406
Merit: 896
April 01, 2024, 01:16:24 PM
#44
I think, I wouldn't be as scared as fillippone is. After you can revive the device by re-flashing the firmware and it doesn't nag with further obvious instability or hangs, I'd dismiss the previous glitch as a one-time hiccup. Am I reckless?

You aren't. I don't care very much to be honest, but I understand fillippone's concern, because it's a natural behaviour to be concerned when things like this happen and especially when they happen to devices that are used to hold secrets of any type. Could be private keys, gpg keys, passwords, anything like that.
hero member
Activity: 714
Merit: 1010
Crypto Swap Exchange
April 01, 2024, 07:50:00 AM
#43
Wow, what's that? Sounds intriguing, my knowledge in physics sucks haha

You might be interested to watch The Universe is Hostile to Computers. In the first minutes an election machines glitch is explained which likely happened due to radioactive decay or this cosmic ray stuff aftermath.


In fact, as I have said, my Jade is amnesiac. Every time I turn it off it erases its memory. So I always need to scan a QR code to load my wallet. Nothing is persisted once it's shut down.

I know, that's the purpuse and part of the security model of those signing devices. You still want to be sure that after you re-instantiate your wallet, everything from that point of usage of the device is working reliably.

I think, I wouldn't be as scared as fillippone is. After you can revive the device by re-flashing the firmware and it doesn't nag with further obvious instability or hangs, I'd dismiss the previous glitch as a one-time hiccup. Am I reckless?
sr. member
Activity: 406
Merit: 896
April 01, 2024, 06:42:21 AM
#42

Maybe a cosmic ray particle or photons incident at the wrong place and time affecting the startup process when apogio turned on his device? Speculation...


Wow, what's that? Sounds intriguing, my knowledge in physics sucks haha

As far a the backups are concerned. Yeah, obviously nothing bad happened. In fact, as I have said, my Jade is amnesiac. Every time I turn it off it erases its memory. So I always need to scan a QR code to load my wallet. Nothing is persisted once it's shut down.

hero member
Activity: 714
Merit: 1010
Crypto Swap Exchange
April 01, 2024, 06:26:56 AM
#41
It would be nice to understand what caused the issue in the first place.

Maybe a cosmic ray particle or photons incident at the wrong place and time affecting the startup process when apogio turned on his device? Speculation...


As I said before, I still would be scared of using that particular hardware.

I assume apogio checked thoroughly the recovery of his wallet after reflashing the device. That should be fine then, except if you're scared that some bits or registers could be instable in his device. If this were the case, instability could occur more often or worse screws things up right when you don't need it, like when you sign a large transaction.

Should we have some function tests built into the firmware to be able to check manually that all major functions are performing properly?
legendary
Activity: 2114
Merit: 15144
Fully fledged Merit Cycler - Golden Feather 22-23
March 31, 2024, 12:33:55 PM
#40

I had the 1.0.23 version and I upgraded to 1.0.29.
It works well so far, since yesterday. I have done a full test of my personal use case. I mean, I have imported the wallet using the QR code, I have signed a transaction, I have changed the colors and the brightness, I have performed a factory reset. All good!

Well, Probably a software error. Nice recovery, Jade.
It would be nice to understand what caused the issue in the first place.
Of course, long-term holding with a Hardware Wallet is not a state-of-the-art practice, but It' 's fairly common.
As I said before, I still would be scared of using that particular hardware.
sr. member
Activity: 406
Merit: 896
March 30, 2024, 03:47:41 AM
#39
I am glad that it turned out to be such an easy fix in the end that only required a fresh software installation. While we are on it, was the firmware on the device outdated anyways and you installed a new one or did you install the same version you already had on your Jade when it all went tits up?

I had the 1.0.23 version and I upgraded to 1.0.29.
It works well so far, since yesterday. I have done a full test of my personal use case. I mean, I have imported the wallet using the QR code, I have signed a transaction, I have changed the colors and the brightness, I have performed a factory reset. All good!
legendary
Activity: 2730
Merit: 7065
Farewell, Leo. You will be missed!
March 30, 2024, 03:30:23 AM
#38
I am glad that it turned out to be such an easy fix in the end that only required a fresh software installation. While we are on it, was the firmware on the device outdated anyways and you installed a new one or did you install the same version you already had on your Jade when it all went tits up?
sr. member
Activity: 406
Merit: 896
March 29, 2024, 04:31:49 PM
#37
I am happy to tell you that my Jade looks ok now:



What I did, as I said above, was to re-flash the firmware using the browser.
So I went to this page: https://jadefw.blockstream.com/upgrade/fwupgrade.html (it's the same that fillippone mentioned above).
It worked perfectly, somehow...

Once again, thanks for trying to help me and thanks for all the suggestions.
legendary
Activity: 1008
Merit: 3001
March 29, 2024, 04:27:50 PM
#36
Directly from BlockStream. In general, I would never buy a device that is supposed to hold secrets from a reseller. Even if you find reputable resellers, I will always choose the original manufacturer.
Understandable. Well, like I said before, if you live in a EU country, you are entitled to a 2 year warranty. What happens is that since there is no official representation of Blockstream, then you will probably have to incur in shipping fees in sending the device to them (which may be bigger than the cost of the device).
sr. member
Activity: 406
Merit: 896
March 29, 2024, 02:28:44 PM
#35
Did you bought the device directly from Blockstream? Or did you bought it from a reseller?

Directly from BlockStream. In general, I would never buy a device that is supposed to hold secrets from a reseller. Even if you find reputable resellers, I will always choose the original manufacturer.
legendary
Activity: 1008
Merit: 3001
March 29, 2024, 02:26:50 PM
#34
Hmm... thanks for the info.
The problem is, I own it for more than a year and I am also not in the US. So I need to cover the shipping fees, but also, it looks like they can't do anything for me.
Anyway, I will try to upgrade the firmware later tonight. Perhaps this issue will be solved.
Did you bought the device directly from Blockstream? Or did you bought it from a reseller?
sr. member
Activity: 406
Merit: 896
March 29, 2024, 02:12:11 PM
#33
@apogio
Take a look at this:

I couldn't find any warranty information on Jade's website either. I did find this Jade review from January 2024, and there is a section that discusses the warranty.

The reviewer said they spoke to the Blockstream team who told them that if the Jade has any issues within the first year that can't be solved remotely or with a software update, you'll get a replacement device or a refund. They cover the return shipping within the US. For orders from outside the States, the buyer covers the shipping fees.

Hmm... thanks for the info.
The problem is, I own it for more than a year and I am also not in the US. So I need to cover the shipping fees, but also, it looks like they can't do anything for me.
Anyway, I will try to upgrade the firmware later tonight. Perhaps this issue will be solved.
legendary
Activity: 2730
Merit: 7065
Farewell, Leo. You will be missed!
March 29, 2024, 12:39:37 PM
#32
You can't really complain to Blockstream since there is no warranty on this devices, but at least they are cheap-ish.
As I wrote in the other thread where we touched upon this subject, it's worth trying. There is no official warranty, but the company might still be willing to fix problems for their customers depending on what went wrong and how. And even if there is a warranty that has expired, we have seen examples (from Ledger) where they have sent replacements for devices that were no longer under warranty.

@apogio
Take a look at this:

I couldn't find any warranty information on Jade's website either. I did find this Jade review from January 2024, and there is a section that discusses the warranty.

The reviewer said they spoke to the Blockstream team who told them that if the Jade has any issues within the first year that can't be solved remotely or with a software update, you'll get a replacement device or a refund. They cover the return shipping within the US. For orders from outside the States, the buyer covers the shipping fees.
sr. member
Activity: 406
Merit: 896
March 29, 2024, 07:00:50 AM
#31

Yes, this is a good idea.
He tells me to follow this guide:
https://jadefw.blockstream.com/upgrade/fwupgrade.html

My thoughts are: would you relay on a faulty piece of hardware for a critical function as storing your precious coins?
If having a new device shipped to you is not such an hassle, I would avoid using that particular pice of hardware again.
Of course, having fun thinkering is part of the game, but I wouldn’t find it funny having that problem again.


Yes these thoughts are the obvious ones, I am having them myself too.
I don't use the Jade very much, so I don't really worry about using it, if I fix the issue myself.
I will follow the guide. Thanks a lot.
legendary
Activity: 2114
Merit: 15144
Fully fledged Merit Cycler - Golden Feather 22-23
March 29, 2024, 06:56:41 AM
#30

I am summoning some Jade experts to this post.
I met them In real life, and I am forwarding this post to them.
Hopefully, they will show up (I don't even know if they have accounts here), or I will relay their observations.

EDIT: They told me to contact Blockstream, as they should send a new one.


Thank you very much my friend. You are very helpful.
I will try something tonight and if it fails I will definitely contact Blockstream.

I will try to update the OS to the latest version using the browser. I don't know if I will be able to press anything on the Jade. If yes, then I will have a chance to fix it. If not, then there is no other choice than to contact them.

Yes, this is a good idea.
He tells me to follow this guide:
https://jadefw.blockstream.com/upgrade/fwupgrade.html

My thoughts are: would you relay on a faulty piece of hardware for a critical function as storing your precious coins?
If having a new device shipped to you is not such an hassle, I would avoid using that particular pice of hardware again.
Of course, having fun thinkering is part of the game, but I wouldn’t find it funny having that problem again.

sr. member
Activity: 406
Merit: 896
March 29, 2024, 06:46:39 AM
#29

I am summoning some Jade experts to this post.
I met them In real life, and I am forwarding this post to them.
Hopefully, they will show up (I don't even know if they have accounts here), or I will relay their observations.

EDIT: They told me to contact Blockstream, as they should send a new one.


Thank you very much my friend. You are very helpful.
I will try something tonight and if it fails I will definitely contact Blockstream.

I will try to update the OS to the latest version using the browser. I don't know if I will be able to press anything on the Jade. If yes, then I will have a chance to fix it. If not, then there is no other choice than to contact them.
legendary
Activity: 2114
Merit: 15144
Fully fledged Merit Cycler - Golden Feather 22-23
March 29, 2024, 06:27:27 AM
#28
Hi guys!

So, my Jade is officially dead, unfortunately!



I think about using the hardware to re-flash the software from Github. Do you think that's possible?

Since this topic is "Jade DIY", I thought it was the best place to ask this question.

I am summoning some Jade experts to this post.
I met them In real life, and I am forwarding this post to them.
Hopefully, they will show up (I don't even know if they have accounts here), or I will relay their observations.


EDIT: They told me to contact Blockstream, as they should send a new one.
legendary
Activity: 1008
Merit: 3001
March 28, 2024, 03:19:01 PM
#27
You can't really complain to Blockstream since there is no warranty on this devices, but at least they are cheap-ish.
I don't know how it works in other parts of the world, but following EU directives no seller can sell a device without providing a 2 year warranty period[1]. Since they sell directkly on their website and also by means of partners[2], apogio can try to get in contact with either of them if he : a) Lives in Europe and b) is under the 2 period warranty (providing it was not the user to blame for the problem).

Also, apogio can always try to open a ticket in their support page to see their feedback. I found this Reddit user[3][4] that did it in a slightly different problem and he managed to get a new Jade device sent to him. It doesn't hurt trying, especially considering how odd apogio problem was.

[1]https://www.eccnet.eu/consumer-rights/what-are-my-consumer-rights/shopping-rights/guarantees-and-warranties
[2]https://store.blockstream.com/products/blockstream-jade-hardware-wallet
[3]https://libreddit.pussthecat.org/r/Bitcoin/comments/14qpp4n/blockstream_jade_cant_get_past_logo_after/
[4]https://libreddit.pussthecat.org/r/Bitcoin/comments/153bxnm/update_jade_couldnt_get_past_logo_after_firmware/
sr. member
Activity: 406
Merit: 896
March 28, 2024, 03:04:31 PM
#26
Can you explain more what exactly happened with your device?

Sure thing.
So I just turned it on after one month that it had been idle.
It woke up like the picture above...
I don't remember doing anything wrong, or forgetting it turned on.
As I have already said a few times, I use it in a stateless mode.
The memory is always wiped and every time I use it, I scan a QR code and load the wallet in memory for a short period.
legendary
Activity: 2212
Merit: 7064
Cashback 15%
March 28, 2024, 02:57:31 PM
#25
So, my Jade is officially dead, unfortunately!
Rip Jade. Sad
You can't really complain to Blockstream since there is no warranty on this devices, but at least they are cheap-ish.
Can you explain more what exactly happened with your device?

I think about using the hardware to re-flash the software from Github. Do you think that's possible?
You can try to flash it again, I think instructions are posted on their github page, but make sure you are using code for this device, not for other devices that are similar.
sr. member
Activity: 406
Merit: 896
March 27, 2024, 01:06:20 PM
#24
What happened to it? Was it just like that when you turned it on or did you do something with it before that happened?
Everything on the screen looks inverted. I don't think it's your picture because the Jade imprint on the case looks normal.

Before you do anything, I would contact their customer support and explain everything in detail. Is the wallet still under warranty? If so, they must try to fix it for you or send you a replacement device.

Not only is it inverted, but it's also covering a small part of the screen. The other half is greyish.

I just turned it on after a month of it being idle and that's what I saw. I tried to charge it, but no luck... I will leave it open till it turns off and then I will charge again, in case it fixes.

I don't think it's under warranty. I don't care too much about it. I use it, but I can leave without it.

I just thought it was a good time to try something fancy, like installing a custom OS etc.
legendary
Activity: 2730
Merit: 7065
Farewell, Leo. You will be missed!
March 27, 2024, 01:02:09 PM
#23
What happened to it? Was it just like that when you turned it on or did you do something with it before that happened?
Everything on the screen looks inverted. I don't think it's your picture because the Jade imprint on the case looks normal.

Before you do anything, I would contact their customer support and explain everything in detail. Is the wallet still under warranty? If so, they must try to fix it for you or send you a replacement device.
sr. member
Activity: 406
Merit: 896
March 27, 2024, 12:43:46 PM
#22
Hi guys!

So, my Jade is officially dead, unfortunately!



I think about using the hardware to re-flash the software from Github. Do you think that's possible?

Since this topic is "Jade DIY", I thought it was the best place to ask this question.
legendary
Activity: 2114
Merit: 15144
Fully fledged Merit Cycler - Golden Feather 22-23
March 20, 2024, 03:30:17 AM
#21
I own a version based on the M5 StickC-Plus.
As usual, I like the possibility of owning a piece of hardware without the possibility of leaking the data of a potential Bitcoin user.
Buying from a central counterpart always allows for data leaks, which is not good if Samson Mow is right.
legendary
Activity: 2730
Merit: 7065
Farewell, Leo. You will be missed!
February 26, 2024, 12:22:49 PM
#20
The Blockstream Jade is one of the cheapest hardware wallets. Besides its affordable price at around €61, the device is also airgapped. If you use the discount code NAKADAI, you can get an additional 10% off and make the purchase even cheaper. I don't know for how long the code will be valid.
sr. member
Activity: 406
Merit: 896
October 24, 2023, 01:10:08 PM
#19

I liked this option: https://github.com/3rdIteration/Jade/blob/master/diy/readme.md

Is it following SeedSigner's (https://seedsigner.com/) footsteps, or am I thinking wrong? Is there any reason not to construct a seed signer? If you order the hardware pieces from separate stores, then it will not let anyone know you want it for Bitcoin.
legendary
Activity: 2212
Merit: 7064
Cashback 15%
October 23, 2023, 05:32:58 PM
#18
apparently customer data has been leaked at Blockstream! numerous users of the Jade hardware wallet have received the fake email shown below, which looks deceptively real at first glance.
Adam Back has already confirmed that it is a scam.
if you have received this type of email, please delete it immediately and do not click on any link.
I saw this but it doesn't have to be database leak, and this was not confirmed.
From what I heard random people received this phishing email even if they never purchased Jade hardware wallet or signed up for any other Blockstream services.
It is possible this people used their email for some stupid airdrops or they signed up for other crypto newsletters or they purchased some other brand of hardware wallets like ledger aka leaker.
legendary
Activity: 2730
Merit: 7065
Farewell, Leo. You will be missed!
October 21, 2023, 04:31:32 AM
#17
Not one more leak. Embarrassed
It's a well-written email that sounds believable unless you pay attention and look at the email address for example.

It will be interesting to see what exactly leaked and in which quantity. I am subscribed to Blockstream's blog and newsletter in my experiment to see if any fake data will leak or if I will receive phishing emails. I can confirm that I haven't received such phishing emails. They might target Jade users exclusively.
legendary
Activity: 3122
Merit: 7618
Cashback 15%
October 21, 2023, 04:17:21 AM
#16
apparently customer data has been leaked at Blockstream! numerous users of the Jade hardware wallet have received the fake email shown below, which looks deceptively real at first glance.
Adam Back has already confirmed that it is a scam.
if you have received this type of email, please delete it immediately and do not click on any link.




https://twitter.com/adam3us/status/1715621325883265505
legendary
Activity: 2212
Merit: 7064
Cashback 15%
June 16, 2023, 09:55:20 AM
#15
Is someone who’s buying a PC more vulnerable to being hacked or targeted than someone who’s buying random boards off the internet? Now that’s a stat I’d like to see! Cheesy
Yes they are obviously more vulnerable, I never heard anyone getting hacked using this devices, and every minute someone who is using computers is hacked in the world.
Anyone with a working brain could realize why this is the case, and chips are all coming from same places anyway.
hero member
Activity: 938
Merit: 642
Magic
June 14, 2023, 01:42:07 PM
#14
It’s not as convenient as a device like Ledger, but it gets the job done better than any other such device in my opinion.

Just create a seed and some adresses offline and store them securely on a metal plate. Then completely reset the device that you use for creating those informations. Simply store 80% off your bitcoin on those adresses and never worry about anything again. With 20% still liquid you should usually not worry about having to move the other 80% regularly.

Most hardware wallets also have the disadvantage that they are pretty expensive and if you plan to buy multiple ones then you will mess up your profits pretty big.
jr. member
Activity: 56
Merit: 26
June 06, 2023, 10:49:06 PM
#13
Better don't risk anything and don't use bitcoin at all, your computer and smartphone are compromised already  Shocked
Is someone who’s buying a PC more vulnerable to being hacked or targeted than someone who’s buying random boards off the internet? Now that’s a stat I’d like to see! Cheesy

I feel like if you buy random boards it’s much easier to be the victim of a compromised batch than if you buy a computer. But now that I think about it, this fear can be easily bypassed.. the more hardware wallets launch and the more complicated these things get, the more I start loving the idea of a traditional cold storage wallet by transforming old devices into the cold storage. It’s not as convenient as a device like Ledger, but it gets the job done better than any other such device in my opinion. Why even bother purchasing possibly counterfeit boards and all if maybe there’s a pre-Bitcoin era laptop out there in the attic laying down & waiting for you to give it life again?
legendary
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June 06, 2023, 03:02:51 PM
#12
That is that is because your not thinking like a paranoid tinfoil hat person. Also keep in mind that compromising device like this would not just be about compromising a hardware Bitcoin wallet, it would be about compromising thousands of IoT things that could be anywhere doing anything giving who knows whom access to who knows what.
On contrary, I am thinking like a paranoid tinfoiler most of the time, but I am realistic about this subject.
If you think this devices are compromised than you shouldn't use your smartphone, laptop or any other electronic device for anything related with bitcoin....since you are 100% ''paranoid tinfoil hat person''.

But why risk it, which is why I and then you pointed out that anybody getting these should only be buying them from m5stack.com or their approved suppliers.
Better don't risk anything and don't use bitcoin at all, your computer and smartphone are compromised already  Shocked
legendary
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June 04, 2023, 08:23:34 PM
#11
This is general used electronic hardware and it's not connected with Bitcoin in any way, and this DIY bitcoin wallets are not very popular, so I don't see any danger here.
Official shop is always the best place to purchase stuff like this.

That is that is because your not thinking like a paranoid tinfoil hat person. Also keep in mind that compromising device like this would not just be about compromising a hardware Bitcoin wallet, it would be about compromising thousands of IoT things that could be anywhere doing anything giving who knows whom access to who knows what.

Getting some Bitcoin out of the deal would just be a bonus, but how many people would buy some like the field tech I know, and then hook these devices up to whatever and have no clue that they're not original hardware. They look like it, they act like it, but they're not. So who the heck knows what is embedded deep down inside. Could be nothing and these were just cheap knockoffs that they were selling , or they could have some vicious code buried somewhere. Personally I'm going with the benign theory and people are just out to make a buck.

But why risk it, which is why I and then you pointed out that anybody getting these should only be buying them from m5stack.com or their approved suppliers.

-Dave
legendary
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June 03, 2023, 04:11:53 PM
#10
Very nice that there is such a big scene of people modding this wallet and creating accessories for it. If I have the opportunity I will definitely try to create a high quality casing
I don't understand why would you need a high quality case for this?  Roll Eyes
It's just a cheap DIY 3d printing that is available anywhere...
People did make premium metal cases for similar DIY devices like SeedSigner, but this is not needed at all and it can only attract attention.

What would maybe be possible would be fill the case with Silikone. Does someone has experience with that?
No.
Silicone is used for isolation, not so much for cases and 3d printing.

From the paranoid tinfoil hat wearing department, be careful where you buy some of these boards from.
This is general used electronic hardware and it's not connected with Bitcoin in any way, and this DIY bitcoin wallets are not very popular, so I don't see any danger here.
Official shop is always the best place to purchase stuff like this.





legendary
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June 03, 2023, 03:26:24 PM
#9
You always have the option to buy wallet with cash in store, or use PO box delivery with alternative name and address.
That's what I had to do when I was buying those Ledger Devices.

From the paranoid tinfoil hat wearing department, be careful where you buy some of these boards from.
It did not miss my eyes 😉
legendary
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June 03, 2023, 09:09:36 AM
#8
It’s super cheap to buy them and they end up in every kind of envoirements, scientist, government, businesses etc.. In those kind of envoirments devices like this are also very hard to track, so in my opinion the only reason to counterfeit such a device would really be some kind of malicious activity. I think otherwise the profit would be to small. Is there a good way to see if a chip is real or counterfeit?

Yes & no.
If you buy from them: https://shop.m5stack.com/ you can probably assume it's real. And I would think the ones coming out of their approved resellers are also real.

Beyond that, I don't think you can. A tech I know bought a bunch from them and when he needed more went to what he thought was a reputable site since at the time M5 had no stock. When one died and he sent it back to M5 it came back as not made by us. Looking at them side by side they were the same. Even in the same packing. Their attitude was we sell them and so do these people, getting it elsewhere you are on your own.

So, yes people will clone a $25 thing. Might not even be for evil reasons, just something cheap to make with a good profit margin.
There are even youtube videos about people selling counterfeit IC chips in the $3 range so.....   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=12u_hBkHB88

-Dave
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Magic
June 03, 2023, 07:46:06 AM
#7
It’s super cheap to buy them and they end up in every kind of envoirements, scientist, government, businesses etc.. In those kind of envoirments devices like this are also very hard to track, so in my opinion the only reason to counterfeit such a device would really be some kind of malicious activity. I think otherwise the profit would be to small. Is there a good way to see if a chip is real or counterfeit?
legendary
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June 03, 2023, 07:31:15 AM
#6
From the paranoid tinfoil hat wearing department, be careful where you buy some of these boards from.

Not necessarily anything malicious directed towards Bitcoin wallets, but even at the ridiculously low price points that you could find and online there are still a ton of counterfeits out there.

I'm assuming that they are just cheap knockoffs being passed off as the less cheap real thing. But in the end you don't have a verifiable source of where some of these chips came from or even who did what at the factory when they were assembled.

Why anyone would create a pirate / clone M5 stack is beyond me, but they are out there Sad

-Dave
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Magic
June 03, 2023, 01:57:30 AM
#5
Very nice that there is such a big scene of people modding this wallet and creating accessories for it. If I have the opportunity I will definitely try to create a high quality casing for a wallet like this to be able to offer it at a competitive price point to other mainstream wallets. Because so far not really any hardware wallet I know does qualify what I consider a well built case. Well built will for me especially include some kind of moisture and water protection.

People may ask why this is necessary but most of those people are relatively new to the crypto world. After 10 years and many destroyed USB Sticks with wallet.dat files on them you will get more cautious  Wink

What would maybe be possible would be fill the case with Silikone. Does someone has experience with that?
legendary
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June 02, 2023, 03:57:15 PM
#4
This made me laugh and sad at the same time when I know what experience we had with Ledger. It's hard to break the link unless you convince someone to receive the delivery for you and they don't know what will it be. This way you put them in risk too.
You always have the option to buy wallet with cash in store, or use PO box delivery with alternative name and address.
For people who want to break the link there is always a way to do it Wink

Very cool project, what I kind of miss as usual with this devices is a good (3D printed) case option, since the display is nice for just 10 USD, but nothing more then a gimmick without the option to put it in a casing.
There is a bunch of STL files available online for free, so everyone can print their own case version.
I know a guy who printed two case versions, one of them is more square shaped and other with oval shape.

CryptoGuide released one more video with custom cases and added camera:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V2yVKag2wlc

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Magic
June 01, 2023, 02:22:07 PM
#3
Very cool project, what I kind of miss as usual with this devices is a good (3D printed) case option, since the display is nice for just 10 USD, but nothing more then a gimmick without the option to put it in a casing.
The more expensive options are nice tho, even also them I would not really consider as more as a gimmick to play around with.


You still have to trust Blockstream to keep all your personal information safe, and hope there won't be any leaks or attacks that will steal and sell your data.
This made me laugh and sad at the same time when I know what experience we had with Ledger. It's hard to break the link unless you convince someone to receive the delivery for you and they don't know what will it be. This way you put them in risk too.

You can consider to let them ship the device to some kind of parcel box like it is usually possible in most countries. With that option a thief will maybe be able to get to your name but that’s all. I think this information will not be enough for somebody really trying to Trackballes down and rob you.
legendary
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June 01, 2023, 10:20:23 AM
#2
You still have to trust Blockstream to keep all your personal information safe, and hope there won't be any leaks or attacks that will steal and sell your data.
This made me laugh and sad at the same time when I know what experience we had with Ledger. It's hard to break the link unless you convince someone to receive the delivery for you and they don't know what will it be. This way you put them in risk too.

CryptoGuide posted a wonderful video instructions how to do everything, with more details on his github page and this will have secure boot same as original Jade device:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PeqP6oVnlIs
On my watch list and I am still looking for a better way for my crypto to keep safe after ledger came up with this wired wallet backup concept. A multisig wallet is still the safest option for me.
legendary
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June 01, 2023, 10:12:07 AM
#1
Jade hardware wallet is open source and it's not very expensive, Blockstream is currently selling it for around $65 plus shipping, and there is a 10% discounts if you pay with L-USDT.

You still have to trust Blockstream to keep all your personal information safe, and hope there won't be any leaks or attacks that will steal and sell your data.

Solution for this is to make your own Jade DIY wallet, and there are several options for everyone to choose.

CryptoGuide posted a wonderful video instructions how to do everything, with more details on his github page and this will have secure boot same as original Jade device:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PeqP6oVnlIs

There is one more quick and dirty solution using Blockstream Jade DIY flasher utility BUT in this case there is no secure boot and flash encryption!
This works for TTGO T-Display, M5Stack Fire, M5Stack Black/Gray and M5StickC PLUS.
https://blockstream.github.io/jadediyflasher/

TTGO (Lilygo) T-Display ~$10 USD


https://github.com/3rdIteration/Jade/blob/master/diy/readme.md

M5 StickC-Plus ~$20 USD


https://github.com/3rdIteration/Jade/blob/master/diy/readme.md

M5 Stack Basic ~$40 USD


https://github.com/3rdIteration/Jade/blob/master/diy/readme.md



All this devices are running with Open Source code so I am adding it to my list of DIY open source hardware wallets:
https://bitcointalksearch.org/topic/list-open-source-hardware-wallets-5288971
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