Broken Authentication

Identification and Authentication failures occur when systems do not adequately verify the identity of users or entities, allowing unauthorised access. These failures can arise from weak password policies, improper Session Management, or insecure Authentication mechanisms.

Identification and Authentication failures involve weaknesses in the processes that validate user identity. These can lead to scenarios where attackers bypass Authentication controls, impersonate legitimate users, or hijack user sessions. Common examples include allowing weak passwords, not enforcing multi-factor Authentication (MFA), or having improper session timeout policies.

These failures are critical because they undermine the trust and security of systems by allowing unauthorised users to gain access. Organisations often face such failures when they rely on outdated Authentication methods, fail to enforce strong password policies, or neglect to implement modern Authentication standards such as MFA. These issues are particularly dangerous as they can enable attackers to escalate privileges or perform malicious actions under a legitimate user’s identity.

To prevent identification and Authentication failures, organisations should adopt strong password policies, enforce multi-factor Authentication, and ensure proper Session Management. Passwords should be stored using secure Hashing Algorithms, such as bcrypt, and systems should include protections against brute-force attacks. Regular audits and Penetration Testing can help identify weaknesses in Authentication mechanisms.

1. Creential stuffing, the use of lists of known passwords, is a common attack. If an application does not implement automated or Credential Stuffing protection, the application can be used as a password oracle to determine if the credentials are valid 2. Lack of Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Another example is failing to implement MFA, which increases the risk of attackers gaining access with stolen or weak credentials.

Identification and Authentication failures can lead to significant security breaches, allowing attackers to gain unauthorised access, steal sensitive data, or take over user accounts. These issues can damage the reputation of organisations, result in regulatory fines, and lead to potential legal consequences. Implementing strong Authentication measures is critical to mitigating these risks.