CWE-260: Password in Configuration File
The product stores a password in a configuration file that might be accessible to actors who do not know the password.
How it's found
Password in Configuration File 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.
This can result in compromise of the system for which the password is used. An attacker could gain access to this file and learn the stored password or worse yet, change the password to one of their choosing.
Consequences
- Gain Privileges or Assume Identity
Mitigations
- Architecture and Design: Avoid storing passwords in easily accessible locations.
- Architecture and Design: Consider storing cryptographic hashes of passwords as an alternative to storing in plaintext.
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-260?
The product stores a password in a configuration file that might be accessible to actors who do not know the password.
How do you find Password in Configuration File?
Password in Configuration File 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-260?
Gain Privileges or Assume Identity
Does TurboPentest test for Password in Configuration File?
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
About this reference
These security references are maintained by IntegSec, an offensive-security firm whose team holds CISSP, OSCP, and OSCE certifications and has run thousands of penetration tests. Content is kept current as tools, standards, and attack techniques evolve.
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