CWE-293: Using Referer Field for Authentication
The referer field in HTTP requests can be easily modified and, as such, is not a valid means of message integrity checking.
How it's found
Using Referer Field for Authentication is a specific, narrowly defined instance of a broader pattern. Testers confirm it with targeted code review and a proof-of-concept input that exercises the exact code path this weakness describes.
Consequences
- Gain Privileges or Assume Identity: Actions, which may not be authorized otherwise, can be carried out as if they were validated by the server referred to.
Mitigations
- Architecture and Design: In order to usefully check if a given action is authorized, some means of strong authentication and method protection must be used. Use other means of authorization that cannot be simply spoofed. Possibilities include a username/password or certificate.
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-293?
The referer field in HTTP requests can be easily modified and, as such, is not a valid means of message integrity checking.
How do you find Using Referer Field for Authentication?
Using Referer Field for Authentication is a specific, narrowly defined instance of a broader pattern. Testers confirm it with targeted code review and a proof-of-concept input that exercises the exact code path this weakness describes.
What is the impact of CWE-293?
Gain Privileges or Assume Identity: Actions, which may not be authorized otherwise, can be carried out as if they were validated by the server referred to.
Does TurboPentest test for Using Referer Field for Authentication?
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.
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