initialize functions can be frontrun

[code423n4]

Handle

cmichel

Vulnerability details

The initialize function that initializes important contract state can be called by anyone.

See:

• MintableERC20.initialize
• PolygonERC20Wrapper.initialize

Impact

The attacker can initialize the contract before the legitimate deployer, hoping that the victim continues to use the same contract.
In the best case for the victim, they notice it and have to redeploy their contract costing gas.

Recommended Mitigation Steps

Use the constructor to initialize non-proxied contracts.
For initializing proxy contracts deploy contracts using a factory contract that immediately calls initialize after deployment or make sure to call it immediately after deployment and verify the transaction succeeded.

[0xleastwood]

As per deployment script, I think this is valid.