Blog | G5 Cyber Security

Secure OTP Generation

G5 Cyber Security

TL;DR

Generate Time-based One-Time Passwords (OTPs) securely using strong random number generation, appropriate hashing algorithms (HMAC-SHA1 is common), and a consistent time step. Protect the secret key used for OTP creation. Regularly review your implementation.

Generating Secure OTPs

  1. Choose a Strong Random Number Generator: Don’t use predictable random functions like rand() in most programming languages. Use cryptographically secure PRNGs (Pseudo-Random Number Generators) provided by your system.
    • Python: secrets.token_hex(16) generates a 32-character hex string.
    • Java: SecureRandom class.
    • Node.js: crypto.randomBytes(16) returns a buffer of random bytes.
  2. Generate the Secret Key: This key is crucial. It must be kept confidential.
    • The secret should be at least 16 bytes (128 bits) long for good security.
    • Store it securely – never hardcode it in your application! Use environment variables, a secrets manager (e.g., HashiCorp Vault), or encrypted storage.
  3. Implement the TOTP Algorithm: The standard algorithm is based on HMAC-SHA1. 
    # Python example using pyotp library
import pyotp
secret = pyotp.random_base32()
totp = pyotp.TOTP(secret)
current_otp = totp.now() # Generates the current OTP
print(f"Secret Key: {secret}")
print(f"Current OTP: {current_otp}")
  4. Time Step Consistency: The TOTP algorithm relies on a consistent time step (usually 30 seconds). Ensure both the server and client use the same time source.
    • Use NTP (Network Time Protocol) to synchronize clocks.
    • Account for potential clock drift between systems. Allow a small window of tolerance when validating OTPs.

Using and Validating OTPs

  1. OTP Validation: When the user enters an OTP, validate it against the current time window.
    • Check if the entered OTP matches the one generated for the previous, current, and next time windows. This accounts for slight clock skew.
    • Use a library like pyotp (Python) or similar in other languages to handle validation correctly. Avoid re-implementing the algorithm yourself unless you are an experienced cryptographer.
  2. Rate Limiting: Implement rate limiting to prevent brute-force attacks.
    • Limit the number of OTP attempts per user within a specific time frame.
    • Consider account lockout after multiple failed attempts.
  3. Protect the Secret Key: This is paramount!
    • Never expose the secret key in logs or error messages.
    • Regularly rotate the secret key (change it periodically).
    • Use strong access controls to restrict who can access the secret key storage.
  4. Consider OTP Length: While 6-digit OTPs are common, longer OTPs provide greater security.
    • Balance usability with security needs.

Security Considerations

  1. Transport Security: Always use HTTPS to protect the communication channel between the client and server when transmitting OTPs or related information.
  2. cyber security Audits: Regularly audit your implementation for vulnerabilities.
  3. Library Updates: Keep your cryptography libraries up-to-date to benefit from the latest security patches.
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