S4E

Keybase Domain Ownership Verification Detection Scanner

This scanner detects the use of Keybase Domain Ownership Verification in digital assets.

Short Info


Level

Informational

Single Scan

Single Scan

Can be used by

Asset Owner

Estimated Time

10 seconds

Time Interval

10 days 17 hours

Scan only one

URL

Toolbox

Keybase Domain Ownership Verification is a process used by individuals and organizations to prove ownership of a domain using their Keybase identity. It is often utilized by developers, security professionals, and organizations seeking to establish trust in digital communications and identity verification. The keybase.txt file is typically placed in the .well-known directory of the web server, serving as a public verification method. This service is popular among those who wish to integrate cryptographic identity systems into their digital assets. Keybase facilitates end-to-end encryption and identity verification across different platforms. The presence of keybase.txt is essential for verifying domain ownership via Keybase.

This detection identifies the existence of a keybase.txt file within a domain's .well-known directory. The file is used to publicly demonstrate domain ownership through a Keybase account. Detection involves checking for specific content within keybase.txt, including the presence of Keybase URLs and potentially encrypted PGP messages. Successful detection confirms that the domain owner has linked their domain to a Keybase identity. The process complements other identity verification methods by leveraging cryptographic proofs. Detection is vital in establishing security and trust in online identities.

The technical details involve making an HTTP GET request to the path /.well-known/keybase.txt within the targeted domain. Upon retrieving the file, the scanner checks for an HTTP status code of 200 and verifies content within the file, specifically looking for the presence of Keybase-related URLs. Additionally, the scanner extracts key information such as Keybase usernames and any embedded PGP messages using regular expressions. The extractors focus on identifiers indicative of Keybase identity verification. This approach ensures that legitimate keybase.txt files are accurately identified and analyzed.

Exploiting this vulnerability would allow a malicious actor to impersonate a domain owner by creating a false sense of trust and legitimacy. They could potentially leverage this to deceive users, redirect communications, or undermine the integrity of identity systems. Unauthorized changes to keybase.txt could disrupt authentic domain verification processes and compromise trust in the associated Keybase identity. This could result in misrepresentation and potential data breaches. Securing the keybase.txt file is crucial to maintaining a secure and trustworthy online presence.

REFERENCES

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