IT Forensics · Linux
Forensic analysis of PAM configuration – correctly classifying authentication modules
Under Linux, Pluggable Authentication Modules (PAM) centrally control how authentication processes for a wide variety of services are carried out, ranging from local log-in to SSH and sudo access.
As PAM intervenes deeply in the authentication process, a tampered PAM configuration can be exploited to intercept login credentials or create additional, covert access routes.
Why LanCologne?
Since its foundation, LanCologne has specialised in professional IT forensics. Our staff have decades of experience in the field of information technology and assist companies, solicitors, private individuals and, on a regular basis, the courts in the technical investigation of complex digital matters.
The examination is, as a matter of principle, carried out exclusively on a forensic copy, a forensic image or a data source captured in a technically equivalent manner that preserves the integrity of the evidence. The original evidence remains unchanged and is stored in a manner that preserves its integrity.
Our services
We systematically analyse the existing PAM configuration, check integrated modules for anomalies and investigate any indications of subsequent tampering aimed at compromising access credentials.
Typical areas of application
This is how a PAM analysis works
Once the system has been backed up, the complete PAM configuration for all relevant services is recorded. Integrated modules are checked for their origin and integrity, with particular attention paid to modules that have been added or modified subsequently. Any anomalies are cross-checked against authentication logs.
Why is PAM analysis relevant in a forensic context?
A compromised PAM configuration may enable an attacker to gain persistent and undetectable access, for example through an additional, covertly integrated authentication module.
As PAM affects virtually all of a system’s authentication processes, a breach at this stage can have particularly far-reaching consequences and is therefore investigated with the utmost care should any suspicion arise.
Frequently Asked Questions
LanCologne – Linux Forensics Cologne
Do you require a professional forensic investigation into „forensic analysis of PAM configuration"? LanCologne can assist you with the court-admissible preservation of digital evidence and the transparent analysis of relevant Linux artefacts.
Related to this topic
- Forensic analysis of Linux user accounts – reconstructing accounts, groups and permissions
- Forensic analysis of /etc/passwd and /etc/shadow – Examining central account databases in detail
- Forensic analysis of sudo logs – understanding privilege escalation in detail
- Forensic analysis of SSH authentication protocols – reconstructing remote access sessions in a traceable manner