CWE-530: Exposure of Backup File to an Unauthorized Control Sphere
A backup file is stored in a directory or archive that is made accessible to unauthorized actors.
How it's found
Exposure of Backup File to an Unauthorized Control Sphere 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.
Often, older backup files are renamed with an extension such as .~bk to distinguish them from production files. The source code for old files that have been renamed in this manner and left in the webroot can often be retrieved. This renaming may have been performed automatically by the web server, or manually by the administrator.
Consequences
- Read Application Data: At a minimum, an attacker who retrieves this file would have all the information contained in it, whether that be database calls, the format of parameters accepted by the application, or simply information regarding the architectural structure of your site.
Mitigations
- Policy: Recommendations include implementing a security policy within your organization that prohibits backing up web application source code in the webroot.
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-530?
A backup file is stored in a directory or archive that is made accessible to unauthorized actors.
How do you find Exposure of Backup File to an Unauthorized Control Sphere?
Exposure of Backup File to an Unauthorized Control Sphere 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-530?
Read Application Data: At a minimum, an attacker who retrieves this file would have all the information contained in it, whether that be database calls, the format of parameters accepted by the application, or simply information regarding the architectural structure of your site.
Does TurboPentest test for Exposure of Backup File to an Unauthorized Control Sphere?
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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