CWE-593: Authentication Bypass: OpenSSL CTX Object Modified after SSL Objects are Created
The product modifies the SSL context after connection creation has begun.
How it's found
Authentication Bypass: OpenSSL CTX Object Modified after SSL Objects are Created 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.
If the program modifies the SSL_CTX object after creating SSL objects from it, there is the possibility that older SSL objects created from the original context could all be affected by that change.
Consequences
- Bypass Protection Mechanism: No authentication takes place in this process, bypassing an assumed protection of encryption.
- Read Application Data: The encrypted communication between a user and a trusted host may be subject to a sniffing attack.
Mitigations
- Architecture and Design: Use a language or a library that provides a cryptography framework at a higher level of abstraction.
- Implementation: Most SSL_CTX functions have SSL counterparts that act on SSL-type objects.
- Implementation: Applications should set up an SSL_CTX completely, before creating SSL objects from it.
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-593?
The product modifies the SSL context after connection creation has begun.
How do you find Authentication Bypass: OpenSSL CTX Object Modified after SSL Objects are Created?
Authentication Bypass: OpenSSL CTX Object Modified after SSL Objects are Created 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-593?
Bypass Protection Mechanism: No authentication takes place in this process, bypassing an assumed protection of encryption. Read Application Data: The encrypted communication between a user and a trusted host may be subject to a sniffing attack.
Does TurboPentest test for Authentication Bypass: OpenSSL CTX Object Modified after SSL Objects are Created?
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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