CWE-1302: Missing Source Identifier in Entity Transactions on a System-On-Chip (SOC)
The product implements a security identifier mechanism to differentiate what actions are allowed or disallowed when a transaction originates from an entity. A transaction is sent without a security identifier.
How it's found
Missing Source Identifier in Entity Transactions on a System-On-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.
In a System-On-Chip (SoC), various integrated circuits and hardware engines generate transactions such as to access (reads/writes) assets or perform certain actions (e.g., reset, fetch, compute). A typical transaction is comprised of source identity (to identify the originator of the transaction) and a destination identity (to route the transaction to the respective entity) in addition to much more information in the message. Sometimes the transactions are qualified with a Security Identifier. This Security Identifier helps the destination agent decide on the set of allowed or disallowed actions. A weakness that can exist in such transaction schemes is that the source agent does not consistently include the necessary Security Identifier with the transaction. If the Security Identifier is missing, the destination agent might drop the message (resulting in an inadvertent Denial-of-Service (DoS)) or take inappropriate action by default in its attempt to execute the transaction, resulting in privilege escalation or provision of unintended access.
Vulnerable vs. safe
Register
Field description
AES_ENC_DEC_KEY_0
AES key [0:31] for encryption or decryption, Default 0x00000000
AES_ENC_DEC_KEY_1
AES key [32:63] for encryption or decryption, Default 0x00000000
AES_ENC_DEC_KEY_2
AES key [64:95] for encryption or decryption, Default 0x00000000
AES_ENC_DEC_KEY_4
AES key [96:127] for encryption or decryption, Default 0x00000000
AES_KEY_ACCESS_POLICY
[31:0] Default 0x00000004 - agent with Security Identifier "2" has access to AES_ENC_DEC_KEY_0 through AES_ENC_DEC_KEY_4 registersRegister
Field description
AES_ENC_DEC_KEY_0
AES key [0:31] for encryption or decryption, Default 0x00000000
AES_ENC_DEC_KEY_1
AES key [32:63] for encryption or decryption, Default 0x00000000
AES_ENC_DEC_KEY_2
AES key [64:95] for encryption or decryption, Default 0x00000000
AES_ENC_DEC_KEY_4
AES key [96:127] for encryption or decryption, Default 0x00000000
AES_KEY_ACCESS_POLICY
[31:0] Default 0x00000002 - agent with security identifier "2" has access to AES_ENC_DEC_KEY_0 through AES_ENC_DEC_KEY_4 registersConsequences
- Modify Memory, Read Memory, DoS: Crash, Exit, or Restart, Bypass Protection Mechanism, Execute Unauthorized Code or Commands
Mitigations
- Architecture and Design: Transaction details must be reviewed for design inconsistency and common weaknesses.
- Implementation: Security identifier definition and programming flow must be tested in pre-silicon and post-silicon testing.
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-1302?
The product implements a security identifier mechanism to differentiate what actions are allowed or disallowed when a transaction originates from an entity. A transaction is sent without a security identifier.
How do you find Missing Source Identifier in Entity Transactions on a System-On-Chip (SOC)?
Missing Source Identifier in Entity Transactions on a System-On-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-1302?
Modify Memory, Read Memory, DoS: Crash, Exit, or Restart, Bypass Protection Mechanism, Execute Unauthorized Code or Commands
Does TurboPentest test for Missing Source Identifier in Entity Transactions on a System-On-Chip (SOC)?
This weakness is not covered by the automated black-box pentest. IntegSec pentesters cover it in a manual engagement.
Related CWEs
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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