Re: Determining the encryption used

[Dotzero <dotzero () gmail com>]

On 5/11/06, John Madden <chiwawa999 () yahoo com> wrote:
> Hi,

You've actually given us a few useful clues to approaching this issue.

> While doing a pen-test I came across a database with
> encrypted fields and I was curious to try and see what
> I would do with it.

The fact that you came across the database and know the files are
encrypted implies that you have gained access to the box itself.

The first question I would have is whether you can determine if the
database application itself is performing the encryption or if the
encryption is being done by an application external to the database.
You could try sniffing the interface if someone has been kind enough
to leave something like tcpdump or snoop (I'm showing my age <G>) on
the box. If you are a little more brazen, use your own tool.

You might do some poking around. I have known trusting DBAs to leave
the keys laying around somewhere in an obscure table or somewhere on
the box (I can hear the gasps of horror across the wire).

You have already received some answers about attacking the encryption
directly. Personally, I find it easier to attack the
implementation/environment rather than the encryption itself. Once you
break the implementation you can get at what you want.

Just my 2 cents.

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