Pentesting ProphetBots

Introduction

As cybersecurity threats continue to evolve, our mission at Borg Security is to anticipate and neutralize these risks, ensuring our clients' systems remain secure. Recently, we conducted an in-depth penetration test for ProphetBots, a trailblazing company in the algorithmic trading sector. Our goal was to uncover potential vulnerabilities and provide them with effective strategies to strengthen their security framework.

This case study showcases our methodical approach and the collaborative efforts taken to enhance ProphetBots' defenses against advanced cyber threats. By focusing on our key findings and the remedial actions implemented, we aim to highlight our dedication to providing exceptional security solutions while maintaining the highest level of client confidentiality and professionalism.

What Was the Scope of the Pentest?

ProphetBots, a newly launched trading bot with both a web application and a Telegram interface, engaged our services a few weeks prior to their official launch. They requested a comprehensive penetration test on their unreleased web application. Given the relatively limited interface of the webapp, our scope encompassed the entire application. Special attention was directed towards areas involving private keys and users' wallets, as vulnerabilities in these areas could have severe consequences.

What Were the Key Findings?

Our penetration test uncovered several issues which were fixed before the launch of the ProphetBots web application:

IDOR Vulnerabilities: Classic IDOR (Insecure Direct Object Reference) vulnerabilities allowed unauthorized changes to metadata for other users' snipers on the webapp.
GET Request Vulnerability: A severe GET request vulnerability allowed changes to be made in users' accounts, constituting an CSRF (Cross Site Request Forgery) attack.
Frontend-Backend Discrepancies: We discovered an exploit that allowed actions which the frontend indicated were not permitted.

{
    "status": true,
    "address": "0x...979",
    "id": "1f...c52",
    "name": "borgsecurity",
    "isDefault": false,
    "imported": false
}

This is an example message we received when changing someone else's sniper information. These types of exploits, while concerning, are typically straightforward to mitigate and are often caught before causing substantial harm.

How Did We Identify Vulnerabilities?

Our approach to identifying vulnerabilities in the ProphetBots web application involved a comprehensive and methodical testing process:

Reconnaissance Phase: Mapping out the entire application, including its endpoints, functionalities, and user interactions.
Generic Testing: Testing for generic exploits found on the OSWAP Top 10. Including every possible entry point for these exploits, especially the API.
Zeroday Research & Testing: Reverse engineering the app's custom infrastructure to put together complex multi stepped attacks via recon and generic testing,

What Steps Did We Take to Mitigate Risks?

Upon identifying vulnerabilities, our team swiftly collaborated with ProphetBots to implement effective risk mitigation measures:

Patching Security Flaws: Addressing critical vulnerabilities that posed immediate threats to user data and system integrity.
Enhancing Access Controls: Strengthening authentication mechanisms and ensuring proper access controls were in place.
Providing Recommendations: Offering actionable recommendations for improving overall security posture, including regular security assessments and staff training programs.

How Did We Collaborate with ProphetBots?

Collaboration with ProphetBots was integral to the success of the pentesting process. We established open channels of communication to ensure a transparent exchange of information and facilitate efficient resolution of identified vulnerabilities. Our team worked closely with ProphetBots' developers and stakeholders to provide detailed insights into discovered vulnerabilities, their potential impact, and recommended remediation strategies. Through regular meetings, status updates, and collaborative decision-making, we fostered a productive partnership aimed at strengthening the security posture of the web application. This collaborative approach enabled us to address security concerns effectively and empower ProphetBots to enhance their platform's resilience against cyber threats.

What Were the Results and Improvements?

Following the completion of the pentesting engagement, ProphetBots implemented several key improvements to bolster the security of their web application:

Patching Identified Vulnerabilities: Addressing critical and high-rish vulnerabilities to ensure user data and system integrity.
Strengthening Access Controls: Implementing robust access controls and authentication mechanisms.
Enhancing Data Validation: Improving data validation mechanisms to prevent unauthorized access and data manipulation.
Continious Monitoring: Establishing ongoing monitoring and vulnerability management processes to ensure continious protection against evolving threats.

As a result of these proactive measures, ProphetBots is better positioned to safeguard user data, preserve trust, and uphold the integrity of their platform in the face of cybersecurity challenges.

How Can Borg Security Help Your Business?

Borg Security is your trusted partner in safeguarding your business against emerging cybersecurity threats. Our team of experts offers comprehensive security solutions tailored to your specific needs, ensuring robust protection for your digital assets and infrastructure. From conducting thorough security assessments and penetration testing to implementing advanced threat detection and incident response measures, we are committed to fortifying your defenses and minimizing risk exposure. With Borg Security by your side, you can navigate the evolving cybersecurity landscape with confidence, knowing that your organization is equipped with the knowledge, tools, and support needed to stay ahead of threats and protect your most valuable assets. Let us empower your business to thrive securely in today's digital age.