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While reverse-engineering the Zoho Vault browser extension, security researcher Ranjeet Jagtap discovered hardcoded `client_id` and `client_secret` in the `zvconfig.json` file, posing a significant security risk. Such exposed credentials could allow attackers to bypass authentication, escalate privileges, or perform unauthorized API calls.
You Should Know:
- How to Identify Hardcoded Secrets in Browser Extensions
Browser extensions often store configuration files in plaintext. To inspect them:
For Chrome/Edge Extensions:
1. Navigate to:
cd ~/.config/google-chrome/Default/Extensions/
2. Locate the extension ID (or find it via chrome://extensions).
3. Unpack the extension:
unzip -q <extension_id>.crx -d ./zoho_vault_inspect
4. Search for sensitive data:
grep -r "client_id|client_secret|api_key" ./zoho_vault_inspect
For Firefox Extensions:
1. Find the extension in:
cd ~/.mozilla/firefox/.default-release/extensions/
2. Extract and analyze:
unzip <extension_name>.xpi -d ./ff_extracted
2. Mitigating Hardcoded Secrets
- Use Environment Variables:
const clientId = process.env.CLIENT_ID;
- Encrypt Secrets: Use tools like AWS KMS or Hashicorp Vault.
- Automated Scanning: Use TruffleHog or GitLeaks:
trufflehog filesystem --directory=./project_dir
3. Responsible Disclosure Steps
1. Verify the Vulnerability:
curl -H "Authorization: Bearer <client_secret>" https://api.zoho.com/v1/data
2. Report via Platform: Use Zoho’s bug bounty program (HackerOne/Email).
3. Follow Up: Ensure a patch is deployed.
What Undercode Say:
Hardcoded credentials remain a critical flaw in many applications. Developers must:
– Avoid storing secrets in client-side code.
– Implement OAuth2 with PKCE for secure authentication.
– Regularly audit extensions using Burp Suite or OWASP ZAP:
zap-cli quick-scan --spider -o -r http://target.com
Expected Output:
- A patched Zoho Vault extension.
- Increased awareness of hardcoded secrets in browser extensions.
Prediction:
More browser extensions will face scrutiny for insecure credential storage, leading to stricter security guidelines from Chrome Web Store and Firefox Add-ons.
(Source: LinkedIn Post by Ranjeet Jagtap)
References:
Reported By: Ranjeet Jagtap – Hackers Feeds
Extra Hub: Undercode MoN
Basic Verification: Pass ✅
