Microsoft SharePoint List API Disclosure Detection Scanner

Microsoft SharePoint is widely used by organizations of all sizes for collaboration, file sharing, and content management. It allows teams to collaborate on documents and projects via a web-based interface, offering features like content management, workflow automation, and search functionality. Users leverage SharePoint for organizing information and managing documents across corporate intranets and extranets. It's especially popular in environments with a strong emphasis on document management processes and team collaboration. Microsoft SharePoint is typically integrated with other Microsoft services like Office 365, making it a cohesive part of Microsoft's enterprise ecosystem. Administrators frequently configure and customize SharePoint to fit specific organizational needs.

This scanner detects exposed Microsoft SharePoint List API endpoints which lack proper authentication, which can inadvertently expose site content and metadata. An exposed endpoint allows unauthorized users to access list and list item information if access controls are misconfigured. Such instances may primarily arise from default settings not being adequately secured during deployment. Regular audits and proper configuration of access controls are essential to mitigate this risk. Monitoring unauthorized access attempts can help detect exploitations of exposed endpoints. Awareness of what data is accessible through these endpoints is crucial for maintaining organizational security. The scanner operates by sending HTTP requests to detect these exposed areas.

When a SharePoint List API endpoint is exposed, unauthorized access may occur due to improper setting of secure authentication measures. The technical vulnerability is centered on HTTP GET requests fetching data containing prominent attributes like "TemplateFeatureId," "d:ParentWebUrl," and "Web/Lists." This indicates exposure to site-specific details and metadata which shouldn't be available without proper clearance. Ensuring the proper authentication mechanisms are in place and engaged is crucial in preventing this vulnerability. Routine checks of API security settings are advised to prevent potential information leakage. Companies must regularly test their system configurations to detect any such exposures early.

If this vulnerability is exploited, confidential company data could be accessed by unauthorized parties, potentially leading to data breaches. Attackers could analyze extracted data for additional exploits or pivoting attacks. There's also the risk of leakage of sensitive organizational metadata, which could be used to further target or exploit the organization. Such exposure might breach compliance regulations, resulting in potential legal consequences. Trust issues might emerge if collaborators and clients find that their data might be improperly secured or accessed. To avoid such scenarios, stringent security assessments and compliance checks should be enforced regularly.

REFERENCES

• https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/sharepoint/dev/sp-add-ins/working-with-lists-and-list-items-with-rest