Conflux Network Fortifies Security with CREATE2 Opcode Fix in Version 2.5 Upgrade

Imagine waking up to find your digital wallet reset to zero, all because someone exploited a glitch in the system. That’s what could have happened if Conflux Network hadn’t acted swiftly to fix a critical security flaw in its CREATE2 opcode. On March 17, 2025, Conflux rolled out its version 2.5 upgrade, ensuring the safety of user funds and bolstering Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM) compatibility. The CREATE2 opcode, a feature allowing developers to predict smart contract addresses before deployment, was at the heart of this issue. This move not only showcases Conflux’s commitment to security but also highlights the essential role community teams like GraFun play in the blockchain ecosystem.

• CREATE2 opcode vulnerability identified by GraFun
• Conflux Network releases v2.5 upgrade to fix the issue
• GraFun rewarded with 60,000 tokens for their vigilance

The Vulnerability

In the world of blockchain, the CREATE2 opcode is like a magic key that lets developers predict where their smart contracts will live before they even exist. It’s a crucial feature for many decentralized applications. However, the standard Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM) has a rule: if you try to deploy a new contract where one already exists using CREATE2, the system fails and returns nothing. But Conflux’s previous implementation had a different idea. As the vigilant team at GraFun discovered in February 2025, Conflux allowed CREATE2 to redeploy contracts at an address with an existing contract, essentially resetting the contract state to its initial deployment state. Imagine if you could redecorate your neighbor’s house just by moving in and claiming it’s yours. That’s what this bug could do to smart contracts.

Conflux’s Response

Conflux quickly jumped into action. The version 2.5 security upgrade, announced on March 4, 2025, and implemented through a hard fork at epoch 118580000 in mid-March, effectively patched the vulnerability. This not only safeguarded user funds but also reaffirmed Conflux’s commitment to EVM compatibility, a cornerstone of its interoperability with Ethereum and other networks. Conflux confirmed that all user funds are safe following the upgrade, which also improved the network’s EVM compatibility.

Community Involvement

The importance of the CREATE2 opcode cannot be overstated. Introduced in Ethereum’s Constantinople upgrade in 2019, it’s a vital tool for developers. Conflux’s quick action to address this vulnerability underscores the ongoing challenges and responsibilities that come with maintaining a secure and interoperable blockchain ecosystem. Recognizing the value of community involvement, Conflux awarded GraFun a total of 60,000 Conflux tokens for their crucial role in identifying and reporting the bug. This included a base bounty of 50,000 tokens and an additional 10,000 tokens for their timely disclosure, showcasing the effectiveness of Conflux’s Bug Bounty Program launched in January 2025. This program encourages community participation and contrasts with other networks that might not have such initiatives.

Broader Implications

While Conflux’s recent strides in security are commendable, it’s important to keep a balanced perspective. The blockchain world is rife with potential pitfalls, and while this upgrade was necessary, it’s a reminder of the constant vigilance required in the crypto space. Conflux’s efforts to enhance EVM compatibility are a step in the right direction, but the journey towards a fully decentralized and secure financial system is ongoing. In the spirit of effective accelerationism, Conflux’s proactive measures to fix vulnerabilities and reward community contributions are paving the way for a more robust blockchain ecosystem. Yet, as bitcoin maximalists might argue, while altcoins and other blockchains like Conflux play their roles, the simplicity and security of Bitcoin remain unparalleled. Nonetheless, Conflux’s approach to security and community engagement is a testament to the innovative spirit driving the broader crypto revolution.

Conflux’s partnership with Bit.Store to integrate CFX into their Web3 CryptoCard product is a notable example of how blockchain networks are expanding their real-world utility, even as they tackle technical challenges.

Key Takeaways and Questions

• What was the nature of the security vulnerability in Conflux Network?

  The vulnerability allowed for the redeployment of smart contracts at existing addresses, potentially resetting the contract state to its initial deployment state.

• How did Conflux Network address the CREATE2 opcode vulnerability?

  Conflux Network released its version 2.5 upgrade on March 17, 2025, which successfully patched the vulnerability and enhanced EVM compatibility.

• What impact did the vulnerability have on other platforms?

  The vulnerability could have affected platforms like Gnosis Safe, which rely on the integrity of smart contract deployment.

• What was the reward given to GraFun for identifying the vulnerability?

  GraFun received a total of 60,000 Conflux tokens, including 50,000 tokens as a base bounty and an additional 10,000 tokens for their timely report.

• How did the Conflux Network ensure the safety of user funds post-upgrade?

  Conflux confirmed that all user funds are safe following the version 2.5 upgrade, which also improved the network’s EVM compatibility.

• What does the CREATE2 opcode do, and why is it important?

  The CREATE2 opcode allows for predictable smart contract deployment, a crucial feature for many decentralized applications.

• When was the Conflux Network’s hard fork scheduled?

  The hard fork was scheduled for mid-March 2025 at epoch 118580000.

• What role does Conflux play in the broader blockchain ecosystem?

  Conflux Network enhances Ethereum’s capabilities by offering improved security and interoperability, filling a niche that complements Bitcoin’s role as a secure, decentralized store of value.

• How does Conflux’s Bug Bounty Program encourage community participation?

  By rewarding vigilant community members like GraFun, Conflux incentivizes the identification and reporting of vulnerabilities, fostering a more secure and engaged community.

• What are the ongoing efforts by Conflux to improve security?

  Conflux continues to work on enhancing its security measures, including regular upgrades and expanding its Bug Bounty Program to attract more community involvement.

As the blockchain space continues to evolve, incidents like these serve as sobering reminders of the importance of security and community vigilance. Conflux’s proactive approach to addressing vulnerabilities, coupled with their commitment to rewarding those who help secure the network, is a beacon of hope in an industry often marred by scams and unrealistic promises. Yet, it’s essential to remain critical and informed, never losing sight of the broader mission to decentralize finance and uphold the principles of privacy and freedom. While some might argue that Conflux’s quick fix is just a band-aid on a larger issue of blockchain security, it’s undeniable that their efforts are pushing the envelope in the right direction.