In a recent disclosure, Microsoft has admitted to a critical vulnerability within its mainstream Azure cloud service, which could potentially expose user accounts to unauthorized access. The vulnerability, named “nOAuth” by Descope, a renowned security software company, is present within Azure’s Active Directory, allowing hackers to exploit it and gain access to third-party websites using compromised Azure accounts. To exploit this vulnerability, hackers simply need to create an Azure account with administrator privileges and modify the account’s email address to that of an unsuspecting user. By utilizing the “Sign in with Microsoft” feature, hackers can easily log in to third-party websites, maliciously using the compromised Azure account.
This vulnerability will potentially affect a substantial portion of Azure users
The “nOAuth” vulnerability in Microsoft Azure’s Active Directory poses a range of risks to the system and its users. It enables hackers to gain unauthorized access to user accounts, potentially leading to data breaches, account takeovers, and manipulation of sensitive information. Compromised Azure accounts can be exploited to log in to third-party websites, putting those services and their users at risk as well. The consequences include financial loss, reputational damage, and potential legal ramifications. Prompt action from Microsoft, such as patching the vulnerability, strengthening security measures, and educating users, is essential to mitigate these risks and protect user accounts and data. User vigilance and reporting any suspicious activities are also crucial in combating this vulnerability. Imer Cohen, the Chief Security Officer at Descope, pointed out that this vulnerability stems from a flaw in Microsoft’s authentication design, leading to the emergence of the “nOAuth” vulnerability. The impact of this breach is significant, potentially affecting a substantial portion of Azure users.
Following the discovery of the breach, Microsoft acknowledged the vulnerability and issued a warning to all users, urging them to be cautious and avoid sharing their email information. By addressing this vulnerability, Microsoft is trying its best to uphold its commitment to user security and take proactive measures to safeguard its cloud service. Users are advised to remain vigilant, regularly update their account settings, and implement strong, unique passwords to mitigate the risk of unauthorized access.
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(Via)
