Double Agent: Exploiting Pass-through Authentication Credential Validation in Azure AD

This research explores the vulnerabilities within Microsoft Azure Active Directory’s Pass-Through Authentication (PTA) mechanism, focusing on the credential validation process. By analyzing PTA’s architecture and operation, the study identifies specific weaknesses that could be exploited by attackers to bypass authentication and gain unauthorized access to cloud environments. The research provides a detailed examination of these vulnerabilities, supported by practical examples and potential attack scenarios, offering insights into improving the security of Azure AD deployments.