OAT-019 Account Creation
Account Creation is an automated threat. The OWASP Automated Threat Handbook - Web Applications (pdf, print), an output of the OWASP Automated Threats to Web Applications Project, provides a fuller guide to each threat, detection methods and countermeasures. The threat identification chart helps to correctly identify the automated threat.
Definition
OWASP Automated Threat (OAT) Identity Number
OAT-019
Threat Event Name
Account Creation
Summary Defining Characteristics
Create multiple accounts for subsequent misuse.
Indicative Diagram
Description
Bulk account creation, and sometimes profile population, by using the application’s account sign-up processes. The accounts are subsequently misused for generating content spam, laundering cash and goods, spreading malware, a ecting reputation, causing mischief, and skewing search engine optimisation (SEO), reviews and surveys.
Account Creation generates new accounts - see OAT-007 Credential Cracking and OAT-008 Credential Stuffing for threat events that use existing accounts.
Other Names and Examples
Account pharming; Fake account; Fake social media account creation; Impersonator bot; Massive account registration; New account creation; Registering many user accounts
See Also
Cross-References
CAPEC Category / Attack Pattern IDs
- 210 Abuse of Functionality
CWE Base / Class / Variant IDs
- 799 Improper Control of Interaction Frequency
- 837 Improper Enforcement of a Single, Unique Action
- 841 Improper Enforcement of Behavioral Workflow
WASC Threat IDs
- 21 Insufficient Anti-Automation
- 42 Abuse of Functionality
OWASP Attack Category / Attack IDs
- Abuse of Functionality
Return to OWASP Automated Threats to Web Applications Project.