CWE-610: Externally Controlled Reference to a Resource in Another Sphere
The product uses an externally controlled name or reference that resolves to a resource that is outside of the intended control sphere.
How it's found
Externally Controlled Reference to a Resource in Another Sphere describes a general pattern rather than a single fixed bug. Testers use a mix of static analysis and manual code review to find where a target's code matches this pattern, then confirm exploitability by hand.
Consequences
- Read Application Data, Modify Application Data: An adversary could read or modify data, depending on how the resource is intended to be used.
- Gain Privileges or Assume Identity: An adversary that can supply a reference to an unintended resource can potentially access a resource that they do not have privileges for, thus bypassing existing access control mechanisms.
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-610?
The product uses an externally controlled name or reference that resolves to a resource that is outside of the intended control sphere.
How do you find Externally Controlled Reference to a Resource in Another Sphere?
Externally Controlled Reference to a Resource in Another Sphere describes a general pattern rather than a single fixed bug. Testers use a mix of static analysis and manual code review to find where a target's code matches this pattern, then confirm exploitability by hand.
What is the impact of CWE-610?
Read Application Data, Modify Application Data: An adversary could read or modify data, depending on how the resource is intended to be used. Gain Privileges or Assume Identity: An adversary that can supply a reference to an unintended resource can potentially access a resource that they do not have privileges for, thus bypassing existing access control mechanisms.
Does TurboPentest test for Externally Controlled Reference to a Resource in Another 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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