A critical security flaw was discovered where a normal user could access the full admin panel due to an exposed endpoint in a JavaScript (JS) file. This vulnerability allows privilege escalation, leading to a complete Admin Panel Takeover.
How the Exploit Works
- Endpoint Discovery: The attacker finds an unprotected API endpoint or admin route in a JS file.
- Direct Access: The attacker accesses the endpoint without authentication.
- Privilege Escalation: The system fails to verify user roles, granting full admin access.
You Should Know:
1. Extracting Hidden Endpoints from JS Files
Use tools like:
- LinkFinder (Extracts endpoints from JS files):
python3 linkfinder.py -i https://example.com/file.js -o results.html
- Burp Suite (Passive scanning for JS files).
- Browser DevTools (Network tab to inspect JS calls).
2. Testing for Unauthenticated Access
Manually check endpoints using `curl`:
curl -X GET "https://target.com/admin/panel" -H "Origin: https://attacker.com"
If it returns admin data, the endpoint is vulnerable.
3. Exploiting Misconfigured Role Checks
If the admin panel relies on client-side validation, bypass it with:
fetch('/admin/deleteUser', {method: 'POST', body: '{"user":"victim"}'})
.then(response => response.json())
.then(data => console.log(data));
4. Automating the Attack
Use Nikto for scanning:
nikto -h https://target.com -C all
Or OWASP ZAP:
zap-cli quick-scan -s all https://target.com
5. Preventing This Vulnerability
- Server-Side Authorization: Always validate roles on the backend.
- Rate Limiting: Block brute-force attempts.
- Obfuscate Sensitive Endpoints: Avoid exposing admin paths in JS files.
What Undercode Say
This exploit highlights the dangers of client-side trust and poor endpoint security. Attackers can easily escalate privileges if developers fail to implement proper role-based access control (RBAC). Always:
– Audit JavaScript files for hidden endpoints.
– Enforce strict CORS policies.
– Use JWT or session-based authentication with server-side checks.
Expected Output:
A successful exploit would return admin panel access, allowing data manipulation, user deletion, or full system compromise.
Prediction
As frontend frameworks grow, more hidden API endpoints will be exposed in JS files, leading to a rise in admin panel takeovers. Companies must adopt automated JS scanning in their security pipelines.
Relevant URLs:
References:
Reported By: Muhammad Mubarak – Hackers Feeds
Extra Hub: Undercode MoN
Basic Verification: Pass ✅
