Authentication and Identity Failures Protection

Authentication and Identity Failures Protection

Authentication and identity management failures occur when applications incorrectly implement functions related to user identity, authentication, or session management. These vulnerabilities allow attackers to compromise passwords, keys, session tokens, or exploit implementation flaws to assume other users' identities. It's like having a security checkpoint where guards don't properly check IDs, or where visitor badges can be easily forged or stolen.

This category, previously called "Broken Authentication," encompasses a wide range of vulnerabilities that all share a common theme: they allow attackers to masquerade as legitimate users. The consequences can be severe—once attackers gain authenticated access, they often appear indistinguishable from legitimate users, making detection difficult. They can access private data, perform actions on behalf of users, and maintain persistent access to compromised accounts.