Episode 57: Find and FIX AD CS Vulnerabilities Using Locksmith with Jake and Sam
Sep 6, 2023
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Jake Hildreth, the creator of the Locksmith tool, and Sam Erde, an IT veteran specializing in Microsoft technologies, discuss the critical role of Active Directory Certificate Services (AD CS) security. They delve into the inception of Locksmith, highlighting its unique features for identifying and fixing misconfigurations. The conversation is filled with personal anecdotes reflecting on their IT journeys and the importance of mentorship. They also share proactive strategies for enhancing organizational security, making this a treasure trove for cybersecurity enthusiasts.
Locksmith is crucial for identifying and fixing Active Directory Certificate Services misconfigurations, particularly the common ESC vulnerabilities that threaten security.
Personal narratives from Jake and Sam highlight the importance of early technological engagement and mentorship in shaping careers in IT and cybersecurity.
Deep dives
Introduction to Locksmith and Active Directory Security
Locksmith is a tool developed to enhance Active Directory Certificate Services (ADCS) security. The need for improved security arose from the complexities of managing ADCS, which often intimidates administrators due to its intricate configurations and potential vulnerabilities. The podcast features insights from two experts, Jake and Sam, who emphasize the importance of understanding both the operational and security aspects of ADCS. Their experiences highlight the growing need for proactive measures in hardening AD environments and the role that Locksmith plays in facilitating this security process.
The Personal Journeys into IT
Jake and Sam share their personal journeys into the IT industry, which began in their childhoods with hands-on experiences of technology. Sam recalls upgrading his school's computer network while Jake describes getting involved with early computers and programming. Their narratives illustrate the influence of mentorship and early experiences on their careers in information technology, emphasizing the importance of practical knowledge and continuous learning. Both experts agree that starting young and embracing curiosity can lead to a fulfilling career in IT and cybersecurity.
Common ADCS Misconfigurations
The podcast identifies several common misconfigurations within Active Directory Certificate Services, particularly ESC configurations, that pose significant security risks. ESC1, allowing certificate requests in the name of any security principal, is frequently encountered across various organizations, while ESC2 configurations related to popular software like vSphere are alarmingly prevalent. The discussion highlights how these vulnerabilities can lead to severe security breaches, underscoring the need for vigilance and regular assessment of ADCS configurations. The experts stress on the importance of using tools like Locksmith to identify and remediate these issues efficiently.
Best Practices for Hardening ADCS
To secure Active Directory Certificate Services, both experts recommend implementing best practices that focus on proactive risk management. Regular assessments using security tools can help identify vulnerabilities before they can be exploited, thereby maintaining a healthier security posture. Additionally, minimizing unnecessary configurations and privileges in the AD environment is vital in mitigating risks. By actively engaging with their systems and leveraging tools like Locksmith, administrators can significantly enhance their security measures and better protect their organizations against potential threats.
In this episode we talk all about Active Directory Certificate Services and a free tool designed to help find and fix AD CS misconfigurations called Locksmith. Jake Hildreth (Mastodon: @horse@infosec.exchange) the creator of Locksmith together with Sam Erde (Twitter: @SamErde) and myself (who are contributors to the project) chat about the inception of Locksmith and some of the awesome features, such as remediation snippets.