This document outlines a lab exercise focused on discovering a hidden GraphQL endpoint. The exercise demonstrates how misconfigurations can lead to security vulnerabilities, allowing unauthorized access to sensitive user management functionalities. It emphasizes the need for ethical use of these techniques in controlled environments only. Affected: GraphQL API, Web Applications, User Management
Keypoints :
- GraphQL is increasingly utilized in web applications for flexible API querying.
- Hidden GraphQL endpoints can be discovered through brute-force methods when direct access is unavailable.
- Proper configuration is essential to prevent vulnerabilities, especially with user management functionalities.
- The lab demonstrates a method to bypass introspection defenses in GraphQL APIs.
- Mitigation strategies include role-based restrictions, monitoring API requests, and disabling introspection.
MITRE Techniques :
- T1071.001 – Application Layer Protocol: Uses GraphQL for API interactions.
- T1190 – Exploit Public-Facing Application: Demonstrates exploitation of misconfigured GraphQL endpoint.
- T1203 – Exploitation for Client Execution: Identifies vulnerabilities through user management access points.
- T1078 – Valid Accounts: Uses brute-force approaches to uncover user details and exploit permissions.
- T1505.002 – Web Shell: Emulates an unauthorized user modifying or deleting accounts through API calls.
Indicator of Compromise :
- [URL] /api
- [URL] /graphql
- [URL] /api/graphql