Gmail vulnerable to automated password cracking
Automated password-guessing attack on Gmail using the "Check email using POP3" feature.
Antecedentes
Gmail is Google's free web-based email service, with built-in search technology and ample storage capacity for keeping messages, files, and images.
Description
An abuse of functionality in the "Check mail using POP3" capability allows automated attacks against Gmail account passwords, bypassing Google's security measures. Gmail implements many security controls (CAPTCHA, temporary IP or account blocking in the event of unusual activity), but this feature allows them to be bypassed.
Business impact
Unlimited capacity for guessing Gmail account passwords and selectively denying service to users (password reset).
Affected systems
Gmail service.
Solución
Implement stronger, more consistent controls against password guessing. The manufacturer has not adopted any solution, so using strong passwords is recommended.
Calendario de divulgación
References
The information contained within this advisory is supplied 'as-is' with no warranties or guarantees of fitness for use or otherwise. Internet Security Auditors accepts no responsibility for any damage caused by the use or misuse of this information.
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