CWE-1283: Mutable Attestation or Measurement Reporting Data
The register contents used for attestation or measurement reporting data to verify boot flow are modifiable by an adversary.
How it's found
Mutable Attestation or Measurement Reporting Data 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-Chip (SoC) implements secure boot or verified boot. During this boot flow, the SoC often measures the code that it authenticates. The measurement is usually done by calculating the one-way hash of the code binary and extending it to the previous hash. The hashing algorithm should be a Secure One-Way hash function. The final hash, i.e., the value obtained after the completion of the boot flow, serves as the measurement data used in reporting or in attestation. The calculated hash is often stored in registers that can later be read by the party of interest to determine tampering of the boot flow. A common weakness is that the contents in these registers are modifiable by an adversary, thus spoofing the measurement.
Consequences
- Read Memory, Read Application Data
Mitigations
- Architecture and Design: Measurement data should be stored in registers that are read-only or otherwise have access controls that prevent modification by an untrusted agent.
Where this fits in a TurboPentest engagement
TurboPentest's agentic pentest is powerful and covers a broad range of issues automatically. This particular class is best confirmed in a manual IntegSec engagement, where human pentesters apply deeper methodology and a larger context window than any automated pass.
Frequently asked questions
What is CWE-1283?
The register contents used for attestation or measurement reporting data to verify boot flow are modifiable by an adversary.
How do you find Mutable Attestation or Measurement Reporting Data?
Mutable Attestation or Measurement Reporting Data 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-1283?
Read Memory, Read Application Data
Does TurboPentest test for Mutable Attestation or Measurement Reporting Data?
TurboPentest's agentic pentest is powerful and covers a broad range of issues automatically. This particular class is best confirmed in a manual IntegSec engagement, where human pentesters apply deeper methodology and a larger context window than any automated pass.
Related CWEs
Find these issues before an attacker does
TurboPentest runs an agentic AI pentest against your target and reports findings with proof, from $99 per target.
Start a $99 pentest