CWE-421: Race Condition During Access to Alternate Channel
The product opens an alternate channel to communicate with an authorized user, but the channel is accessible to other actors.
How it's found
Race Condition During Access to Alternate Channel 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 creates a race condition that allows an attacker to access the channel before the authorized user does.
Consequences
- Gain Privileges or Assume Identity, Bypass Protection Mechanism
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-421?
The product opens an alternate channel to communicate with an authorized user, but the channel is accessible to other actors.
How do you find Race Condition During Access to Alternate Channel?
Race Condition During Access to Alternate Channel 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-421?
Gain Privileges or Assume Identity, Bypass Protection Mechanism
Does TurboPentest test for Race Condition During Access to Alternate Channel?
This weakness is not covered by the automated black-box pentest. IntegSec pentesters cover it in a manual engagement.
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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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