Broken access control

Definition

Broken access control occurs when an application does not properly enforce user permissions, allowing unauthorized users to gain access to restricted resources. This vulnerability can lead to various security issues, such as data exposure, privilege escalation, and unauthorized actions on behalf of legitimate users. It is crucial for web applications to implement robust access controls to ensure that users can only access resources they are authorized to.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Broken access control is ranked as one of the top vulnerabilities in the OWASP Top 10 list, indicating its prevalence and critical impact on application security.
2. Common causes of broken access control include improper validation of user permissions, insecure direct object references, and insufficient checks on user roles.
3. Attackers can exploit broken access control to perform unauthorized actions, such as viewing sensitive data, modifying records, or even taking over admin accounts.
4. To mitigate broken access control, developers should implement strict role-based access controls (RBAC) and regularly review permissions across their applications.
5. Testing for broken access control should be part of regular security assessments, using automated tools and manual testing methods to identify potential vulnerabilities.

Review Questions

• What are some common scenarios in which broken access control may occur in web applications?
  • Common scenarios for broken access control include situations where a user can manipulate URLs or form parameters to gain unauthorized access to data or functionalities. For instance, if a web application allows users to view files based on a numeric ID without validating the user's permission, an attacker could easily change the ID to view other users' files. Another scenario is when an application fails to restrict administrative functions to only authorized users, allowing regular users to perform actions like deleting accounts or changing configurations.
• How can role-based access control (RBAC) help prevent broken access control vulnerabilities?
  • Role-based access control (RBAC) helps prevent broken access control by assigning specific permissions to roles rather than individual users. When users are assigned roles based on their responsibilities, it becomes easier to manage who has access to what resources. This structured approach reduces the likelihood of unauthorized access since users can only perform actions that are explicitly permitted for their role. Regular audits and updates of these roles also ensure that permissions remain appropriate as the application evolves.
• Evaluate the impact of broken access control on an organization's overall security posture and discuss strategies for effective mitigation.
  • Broken access control can significantly undermine an organization's security posture by exposing sensitive information and enabling unauthorized actions, which could lead to data breaches and compliance violations. The repercussions may include loss of customer trust, legal penalties, and financial loss. To effectively mitigate these risks, organizations should adopt a multi-faceted approach that includes implementing robust authentication mechanisms, regularly reviewing user permissions, conducting thorough security assessments, and educating developers about secure coding practices. Additionally, incorporating automated tools for vulnerability scanning can help identify issues related to access control before they can be exploited.

Related terms

Authentication: The process of verifying the identity of a user or system, typically through the use of credentials like usernames and passwords.

Authorization: The mechanism that determines what an authenticated user is allowed to do, including which resources they can access and what actions they can perform.

Session Management: The practice of securely managing user sessions, ensuring that session tokens are protected and that access rights are correctly enforced throughout a user's interaction with the application.