Misconfigured Object Filters
TLDR: Misconfigured object filters, often used to control and validate objects during serialization or API processing, can lead to vulnerabilities such as data tampering, remote code execution (RCE), and unauthorized access. These issues stem from weak validation logic, improper allowlists, and insecure default configurations, violating several OWASP Top Ten principles, including Input Validation, Access Controls, and secure Error Handling.
https://owasp.org/www-community/Input_Validation
Improper input validation in object filters allows attackers to bypass checks and inject malicious objects. Weak or missing validation can result in code injection attacks. Following OWASP Top Ten guidance on strict Input Validation mitigates such risks by ensuring that all objects are thoroughly validated.
https://owasp.org/www-community/vulnerabilities/Insecure_Deserialization
Unrestricted deserialization or serialization of objects without using allowlists for permissible types can lead to RCE or data manipulation. Configuring object filters to accept only specific and trusted object types is critical, aligning with OWASP Top Ten's recommendations on secure deserialization practices.
https://owasp.org/www-community/vulnerabilities/Insecure_Deserialization
Lack of Access Controls when processing objects exposes applications to unauthorized access and privilege escalation. Ensuring role-based access to sensitive data and APIs is essential to secure object processing pipelines and comply with OWASP Top Ten's principles on Access Management.
https://owasp.org/www-community/Access_Control
Exposing sensitive fields during serialization or object filtering increases the risk of data leakage. Encrypting sensitive fields and limiting the exposure of internal properties align with OWASP Top Ten's Data Encryption standards.
https://owasp.org/www-community/Data_Encryption
Inadequate Error Handling in object filters can reveal sensitive information, such as application logic or internal object structure. Properly masking error outputs and ensuring that exception details are not exposed in production environments comply with OWASP Top Ten's secure Error Handling principles.
https://owasp.org/www-community/Error_Handling
Using default configurations in object filters without reviewing their security implications can leave applications vulnerable. Many Framework Defaults prioritize functionality over security, requiring developers to customize settings for secure object processing, as per OWASP Top Ten guidelines.
https://owasp.org/www-community/Framework_Security_Project
Logging raw object data without applying secure Logging practices increases the risk of exposing sensitive information. Adopting measures such as masking sensitive fields and encrypting logs ensures compliance with OWASP Top Ten's standards for secure monitoring and auditing.
https://owasp.org/www-community/Logging_and_Monitoring_Cheat_Sheet
Neglecting to monitor and update libraries or frameworks used for object filters can expose applications to vulnerabilities in outdated components. Regular dependency checking and alerts for vulnerable components ensure libraries remain secure and up to date.
https://owasp.org/www-project-dependency-check/
Failing to set constraints on object size or complexity during processing can make applications vulnerable to denial of service attacks. Implementing limits on the size and depth of objects ensures compliance with OWASP Top Ten's focus on secure resource management.
https://owasp.org/www-community/Denial_of_Service
Finally, sandboxing the environments where object filters operate prevents attacks that could exploit their functionality. Ensuring these operations are isolated from critical systems minimizes the risk of RCE, adhering to OWASP Top Ten's focus on secure deserialization and object processing practices.