CWE-1253: Incorrect Selection of Fuse Values
The logic level used to set a system to a secure state relies on a fuse being unblown.
How it's found
Incorrect Selection of Fuse Values 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.
Fuses are often used to store secret data, including security configuration data. When not blown, a fuse is considered to store a logic 0, and, when blown, it indicates a logic 1. Fuses are generally considered to be one-directional, i.e., once blown to logic 1, it cannot be reset to logic 0.
Consequences
- Bypass Protection Mechanism, Gain Privileges or Assume Identity: If the logic used to determine system-security state (by leveraging the values sensed from the fuses) uses negative logic, an attacker might blow the fuse and drive the system to an insecure state.
- DoS: Crash, Exit, or Restart
- Read Memory
- Modify Memory, Execute Unauthorized Code or Commands
Mitigations
- Architecture and Design: Logic should be designed in a way that blown fuses do not put the product into an insecure state that can be leveraged by an attacker.
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-1253?
The logic level used to set a system to a secure state relies on a fuse being unblown.
How do you find Incorrect Selection of Fuse Values?
Incorrect Selection of Fuse Values 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-1253?
Bypass Protection Mechanism, Gain Privileges or Assume Identity: If the logic used to determine system-security state (by leveraging the values sensed from the fuses) uses negative logic, an attacker might blow the fuse and drive the system to an insecure state. DoS: Crash, Exit, or Restart Read Memory Modify Memory, Execute Unauthorized Code or Commands
Does TurboPentest test for Incorrect Selection of Fuse Values?
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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