// definition
Backdoor
An added route around an expected protection
Short definition
A mechanism deliberately introduced to allow access by bypassing protection normally provided by a system. It may involve an additional key, a hidden function or another privileged access route. That deliberate introduction distinguishes it from an accidental vulnerability. Its reach and the risk of misuse depend on the architecture and controls.
risk atlas
Knowledge map
Related analyses
Primary sources
- CNIL, risks associated with backdoors30 August 2017: backdoors, master keys and collective risk.
- IETF, RFC 2804, section 1May 2000, Summary position: complexity and protection of access to interception functions.