CWE-556: ASP.NET Misconfiguration: Use of Identity Impersonation
Configuring an ASP.NET application to run with impersonated credentials may give the application unnecessary privileges.
How it's found
ASP.NET Misconfiguration: Use of Identity Impersonation 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.
The use of impersonated credentials allows an ASP.NET application to run with either the privileges of the client on whose behalf it is executing or with arbitrary privileges granted in its configuration.
Consequences
- Gain Privileges or Assume Identity
Mitigations
- Architecture and Design: Use the least privilege principle.
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-556?
Configuring an ASP.NET application to run with impersonated credentials may give the application unnecessary privileges.
How do you find ASP.NET Misconfiguration: Use of Identity Impersonation?
ASP.NET Misconfiguration: Use of Identity Impersonation 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-556?
Gain Privileges or Assume Identity
Does TurboPentest test for ASP.NET Misconfiguration: Use of Identity Impersonation?
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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