CWE-541: Inclusion of Sensitive Information in an Include File
If an include file source is accessible, the file can contain usernames and passwords, as well as sensitive information pertaining to the application and system.
How it's found
Inclusion of Sensitive Information in an Include File 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
- Read Application Data
Mitigations
- Architecture and Design: Do not store sensitive information in include files.
- Architecture and Design/System Configuration: Protect include files from being exposed.
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-541?
If an include file source is accessible, the file can contain usernames and passwords, as well as sensitive information pertaining to the application and system.
How do you find Inclusion of Sensitive Information in an Include File?
Inclusion of Sensitive Information in an Include File 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-541?
Read Application Data
Does TurboPentest test for Inclusion of Sensitive Information in an Include 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.
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