> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://dev-angelist.gitbook.io/windows-privilege-escalation/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://dev-angelist.gitbook.io/windows-privilege-escalation/13-stored-credentials-and-the-windows-vault.md).
# 13 - Stored Credentials and the Windows Vault
#### Topics
> 1. Introduction to the Windows Shells
> 2. Windows Permissions
> 3. Reverse Shells in Windows
> 4. SeImpersonatePrivilege Exploitation
> 5. On Cross Compilation
> 6. Windows Services
> 7. Weak Service Permissions
> 8. Unquoted Service Path
> 9. DLL Hijacking
> 10. Always Install Elevated
> 11. Files with Sensitive Data
> 12. Windows Hashes
> 13. Stored Credentials and the Windows Vault
> 14. Scheduled Task
> 15. Critical Registry Paths
> 16. Useful Tools
> 17. AMSI Bypass
## **Credential Manager**
The **Credential Manager** is a Windows feature that provides centralized storage for user credentials such as usernames, passwords, and certificates. It simplifies authentication by securely storing credentials using the **Windows Data Protection API (DPAPI)**.
Credentials stored in the manager can be used by applications and services without requiring users to re-enter authentication details, improving convenience and productivity.
***
### **Why is it Dangerous?**
Even though credentials in the manager are encrypted using DPAPI, a compromised session exposes all stored credentials.
* **Active Use by Attackers**:\
While plaintext passwords may not be accessible, attackers can leverage the stored credentials to authenticate to systems and services.
**Key Security Implication**:\
If a session is compromised, all credentials stored in the manager can be used.
#### **Best Practices**:
* Minimize the storage of sensitive credentials in your session.
* Protect your session with strong authentication and physical security.
***
## **Using Credential Manager**
**Accessing Credential Manager**
Navigate through:
```bash
Control Panel → User Accounts → Credential Manager → Web Credentials or Windows Credentials
```
***
**Command-Line Usage**
* **List Stored Credentials**:
```bash
cmdkey /list
```
* **Add New Credentials**:
```bash
cmdkey /add:MyServer /user:MyUser /pass:MyPassword
```
* **Delete Credentials**:
```bash
cmdkey /delete:MyServer
cmdkey /delete:Domain:interactive=WORKGROUP\Administrator
```
* **Run as Another User and Save Credentials**:
```bash
runas /savecred /user:quickem-h5dsq1v\quickemu powershell.exe
```
On subsequent uses, the password will not be requested:
```bash
runas /savecred /user:quickem-h5dsq1v\quickemu "cmd.exe"
```
***
## **Windows Vault**
Credential Manager relies on the **Windows Vault** as its storage backend. The vault securely encrypts and manages sensitive data.
**Command-Line Access**
* **List All Vaults**:
```bash
vaultcmd /list
```
* **List Entries in a Vault**:
```bash
vaultcmd /listcreds:"Web Credentials" /all
```
* **Dump Vault Data with Mimikatz**:
```bash
bmimikatz.exe vault::list
```
***
## Other Resources
* **Credential Manager Store**:\
[Microsoft Documentation](https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/previous-versions/windows/it-pro/windows-server-2012-R2-and-2012/hh994565\(v=ws.11\))
* **cmdkey Documentation**:\
[Microsoft Documentation](https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/windows-server/administration/windows-commands/cmdkey)
{% hint style="danger" %}
**Disclaimer**
**❗ Never use tools and techniques on real IP addresses, hosts or networks without proper authorization!**❗
{% endhint %}
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