CWE-317: Cleartext Storage of Sensitive Information in GUI

What is Cleartext Storage of Sensitive Information in GUI?

• Overview: Cleartext Storage of Sensitive Information in GUI occurs when sensitive data is stored in an unencrypted form within the graphical user interface of an application, making it accessible to attackers.

• Exploitation Methods:

• Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by using APIs to access GUI components directly, such as windows or menus.
• Common attack patterns include capturing data from GUI elements that are not properly secured or hidden.

• Security Impact:

• Direct consequences include unauthorized access to sensitive information like passwords, personal data, or confidential business information.
• Potential cascading effects include further system compromise if attackers use the sensitive data to gain deeper access.
• Business impact includes loss of customer trust, legal implications, and financial damage due to data breaches.

• Prevention Guidelines:

• Specific code-level fixes include encrypting sensitive data before displaying it in the GUI.
• Security best practices involve using secure libraries for data handling and avoiding unnecessary storage of sensitive information in the GUI.
• Recommended tools and frameworks include security-focused GUI frameworks and libraries that provide built-in encryption and data protection features.

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Technical Details

Likelihood of Exploit: Not specified

Affected Languages: Not Language-Specific

Affected Technologies: Not specified

Vulnerable Code Example

JavaScript Example

// This JavaScript code demonstrates a cleartext storage vulnerability
// where sensitive information (e.g., a password) is stored in cleartext
// within a GUI element (input field).

document.getElementById('passwordField').value = 'userPassword123';
// Storing sensitive information like passwords in cleartext within the GUI
// can lead to unauthorized access if the GUI is inspected by an attacker.

How to fix Cleartext Storage of Sensitive Information in GUI?

Storing sensitive information such as passwords directly in the GUI in cleartext is a significant security risk. It can be easily accessed through developer tools or browser inspection, leading to potential data breaches. To fix this vulnerability, sensitive data should never be stored in cleartext within the GUI. Instead, employ the following practices:

1. Avoid Storing Sensitive Data in GUI: Do not store sensitive data directly in GUI components. If necessary, store only non-sensitive identifiers.
2. Use Secure Storage: If you need to store sensitive data temporarily, consider using secure methods like session storage or encrypted cookies.
3. Use Placeholders: Use placeholders in input fields to guide users without storing actual data.
4. Server-Side Handling: Handle sensitive data processing on the server side, ensuring it's never exposed on the client side.

Fixed Code Example

// The fixed code ensures that sensitive information is not stored
// in cleartext within the GUI. Instead, it uses a placeholder.

document.getElementById('passwordField').placeholder = 'Enter your password';
// A placeholder guides the user without storing sensitive data.

function handlePasswordSubmission() {
    const password = document.getElementById('passwordField').value;
    // Process password securely on the server side
    sendPasswordToServer(password);
}

function sendPasswordToServer(password) {
    // Send the password securely to the server using HTTPS
    // Ensure encryption in transit
}

In the fixed version, the code no longer stores the password in cleartext on the client side. Instead, a placeholder is used to prompt the user, and the password is immediately sent to the server for processing. This ensures that sensitive data is not exposed within the GUI. Additionally, ensure the communication is done over HTTPS to protect the data in transit.