Critical Vendor AWS Key Exposure Prevented: Cash Management Major's Sensitive Data Secured

Challenge

CloudSEK SVigil detected a significant security flaw in the system of a prominent vendor for a cash management company. AWS secret and access keys were hardcoded in a JavaScript file, posing a severe security risk.

This vulnerability exposed sensitive information, including confidential documents, configuration files, and publicly accessible S3 buckets.

The exposed data included ATM audit reports, business documents, and CCTV footage related to cash management operations.

Impact

The exposure of hardcoded AWS keys can result in significant security risks, including unauthorized access to sensitive data. Attackers could exploit this vulnerability to gain deeper system access, leading to data breaches, reputation damage, regulatory penalties, and financial losses.

The unauthorized access to business documents, ATM audit reports, and other sensitive data can lead to operational disruptions and loss of customer trust.

Additionally, the exposure could compromise the integrity of cash management operations and client data.

Solution

‍CloudSEK SVigil promptly identified and addressed the hardcoded AWS keys, ensuring that sensitive data was protected and access was restricted.

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Implementation:

Detection:

CloudSEK SVigil discovered the hardcoded AWS keys in a JavaScript file on the vendor’s system.

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Threat Analysis:

• The hardcoded AWS keys could allow threat actors to gain unauthorized access to AWS resources, potentially exposing sensitive data and internal infrastructure
• The analysis revealed that attackers could use the exposed keys to conduct targeted attacks, manipulate AWS resources, and access confidential business documents

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Immediate Actions:

• Invalidate the exposed AWS keys and generate new keys to prevent further unauthorized access
• Secure the JavaScript file by removing hardcoded keys and implementing secure access mechanisms
• Conduct a thorough review of AWS S3 buckets to identify and secure any additional vulnerabilities

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Preventive Measures:

• Conduct regular security audits and code reviews to ensure ongoing protection
• Strengthen security policies and educate developers on best practices for handling sensitive information
• Implement environment variables or secure vaults for storing keys and credentials instead of hardcoding them in the code