CWE-1189: Improper Isolation of Shared Resources on System-on-a-Chip (SoC)
The System-On-a-Chip (SoC) does not properly isolate shared resources between trusted and untrusted agents.
How it's found
Improper Isolation of Shared Resources on System-on-a-Chip (SoC) is typically found by tracing untrusted input from where it enters the system to the point where it is used without the check or neutralization this weakness describes, combining manual code review with dynamic testing.
A System-On-a-Chip (SoC) has a lot of functionality, but it may have a limited number of pins or pads. A pin can only perform one function at a time. However, it can be configured to perform multiple different functions. This technique is called pin multiplexing. Similarly, several resources on the chip may be shared to multiplex and support different features or functions. When such resources are shared between trusted and untrusted agents, untrusted agents may be able to access the assets intended to be accessed only by the trusted agents.
Consequences
- Bypass Protection Mechanism: If resources being used by a trusted user are shared with an untrusted user, the untrusted user may be able to modify the functionality of the shared resource of the trusted user.
- Quality Degradation: The functionality of the shared resource may be intentionally degraded.
Mitigations
- Architecture and Design: When sharing resources, avoid mixing agents of varying trust levels. Untrusted agents should not share resources with trusted agents.
Where this fits in a TurboPentest engagement
This weakness is not covered by the automated black-box pentest. IntegSec pentesters cover it in a manual engagement.
Frequently asked questions
What is CWE-1189?
The System-On-a-Chip (SoC) does not properly isolate shared resources between trusted and untrusted agents.
How do you find Improper Isolation of Shared Resources on System-on-a-Chip (SoC)?
Improper Isolation of Shared Resources on System-on-a-Chip (SoC) is typically found by tracing untrusted input from where it enters the system to the point where it is used without the check or neutralization this weakness describes, combining manual code review with dynamic testing.
What is the impact of CWE-1189?
Bypass Protection Mechanism: If resources being used by a trusted user are shared with an untrusted user, the untrusted user may be able to modify the functionality of the shared resource of the trusted user. Quality Degradation: The functionality of the shared resource may be intentionally degraded.
Does TurboPentest test for Improper Isolation of Shared Resources on System-on-a-Chip (SoC)?
This weakness is not covered by the automated black-box pentest. IntegSec pentesters cover it in a manual engagement.
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Written and reviewed by
Michel Chamberland - Founder & CEO, IntegSec
CISSP, OSCP, OSCE, CEH, GIAC, CCSK · 20+ years in offensive security
Michel has spent 20+ years on offensive security teams including IBM X-Force Red and Trustwave SpiderLabs, leading penetration tests, red team engagements, and breach response for Fortune 500 customers. He is the founder of IntegSec and the architect of TurboPentest.
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