CWE-1254 - Incorrect Comparison Logic Granularity
- Abstraction:Base
- Structure:Simple
- Status:Draft
- Release Date:2020-02-24
- Latest Modification Date:2024-11-19
Weakness Name
Incorrect Comparison Logic Granularity
Description
The product's comparison logic is performed over a series of steps rather than across the entire string in one operation. If there is a comparison logic failure on one of these steps, the operation may be vulnerable to a timing attack that can result in the interception of the process for nefarious purposes.
Comparison logic is used to compare a variety of objects including passwords, Message Authentication Codes (MACs), and responses to verification challenges. When comparison logic is implemented at a finer granularity (e.g., byte-by-byte comparison) and breaks in the case of a comparison failure, an attacker can exploit this implementation to identify when exactly the failure occurred. With multiple attempts, the attacker may be able to guesses the correct password/response to challenge and elevate their privileges.
Common Consequences
Scope: Confidentiality, Authorization
Impact: Bypass Protection Mechanism
