CWE-283: Unverified Ownership
The product does not properly verify that a critical resource is owned by the proper entity.
How it's found
Unverified Ownership 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.
Vulnerable vs. safe
os.kill(processID, signal.SIGKILL)def killProcess(processID):#Check process owner against requesting user
os.kill(processID, signal.SIGKILL)return
print("You cannot kill a process you don't own")returnuser = getCurrentUser()if getProcessOwner(processID) == user:else:def killProcess(processID):Consequences
- Gain Privileges or Assume Identity: An attacker could gain unauthorized access to system resources.
Mitigations
- Architecture and Design/Operation: Very carefully manage the setting, management, and handling of privileges. Explicitly manage trust zones in the software.
- Architecture and Design: Consider following the principle of separation of privilege. Require multiple conditions to be met before permitting access to a system resource.
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-283?
The product does not properly verify that a critical resource is owned by the proper entity.
How do you find Unverified Ownership?
Unverified Ownership 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-283?
Gain Privileges or Assume Identity: An attacker could gain unauthorized access to system resources.
Does TurboPentest test for Unverified Ownership?
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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