CWE-1394

Use of Default Cryptographic Key
AI Translation Available

The product uses a default cryptographic key for potentially critical functionality.

Status
incomplete
Abstraction
base

It is common practice for products to be designed to use
default keys. The rationale is to simplify the manufacturing
process or the system administrator's task of installation and
deployment into an enterprise. However, if admins do not
change the defaults, it is easier for attackers to bypass
authentication quickly across multiple organizations.

Common Consequences

authentication
Impacts
gain privileges or assume identity

Potential Mitigations

Phases:
requirements architecture and design installation operation
Descriptions:
• Force the administrator to change the credential upon installation.
• Prohibit use of default, hard-coded, or other values that do not vary for each installation of the product - especially for separate organizations.
• The product administrator could change the defaults upon installation or during operation.