Cryptocurrency wallet provider Tangem recently addressed a significant security vulnerability in its mobile application that exposed certain users’ private keys through email logs. The issue came to light on December 29 when Reddit user u/areklanga criticized the company for mishandling sensitive data. According to the report, the vulnerability allowed private keys to be stored in email histories, which could then be accessed by Tangem employees via the company’s ticket tracking system. The revelation sparked concerns within the cryptocurrency community, especially after earlier discussions about the problem were inexplicably removed from Reddit.
On December 30, Tangem acknowledged the issue, explaining that it stemmed from a bug in the app’s log processing system. This bug caused private keys to be logged during the creation of a wallet using a seed phrase. These logs were then accessible to Tangem’s support team when users submitted requests. In response, the company confirmed that it had permanently deleted all affected logs and attachments to ensure no sensitive data remained. Tangem reassured users that the issue had been fully resolved, preventing further exposure.
Tangem clarified that the flaw primarily affected a small group of users who generated a wallet seed phrase and immediately contacted support. The company has been proactive in reaching out to affected customers, offering guidance and assistance. However, despite the quick resolution, Tangem faced criticism for its lack of timely communication. The company has not yet made a formal announcement on official channels such as Twitter, Discord, or Telegram, which further frustrated members of the crypto community.
As of December 31, Tangem urges all users to update their mobile apps to prevent potential future issues. While the company has taken steps to secure users’ private keys and address the underlying flaw, the incident underscores the importance of maintaining robust security practices and transparent communication. Cryptocurrency wallet providers must remain vigilant against emerging threats, as even small vulnerabilities can lead to significant risks for users’ funds.
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