CVE-2007-4368 in Rational ClearQuest
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in /main in IBM Rational ClearQuest (CQ) Web 7.0.0.0-IFIX02 and 7.0.0.1 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the username parameter in a GenerateMainFrame command.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/30/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-4368 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within IBM Rational ClearQuest Web 7.0.0.0-IFIX02 and 7.0.0.1 versions. This weakness resides in the main application component where user input is improperly handled during the GenerateMainFrame command execution. The vulnerability specifically targets the username parameter which serves as the entry point for malicious SQL command injection attempts by remote attackers.
This SQL injection vulnerability operates through the manipulation of the username parameter within the web interface of ClearQuest, allowing unauthorized users to construct and execute arbitrary SQL commands against the underlying database system. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization mechanisms that fail to properly escape or filter user-supplied data before incorporating it into database queries. When the application processes the username parameter without proper security measures, it becomes susceptible to injection attacks that can manipulate the database query execution flow.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as it provides attackers with the capability to execute commands directly on the database server. This could result in complete database compromise, unauthorized data modification, data exfiltration, and potential lateral movement within the network infrastructure. The vulnerability affects organizations using IBM Rational ClearQuest for requirements management, change control, and issue tracking, making it particularly dangerous for enterprises that rely on this platform for critical business operations. The remote nature of the attack means that adversaries can exploit this vulnerability from outside the corporate network without requiring physical access or prior authentication.
Security professionals should note that this vulnerability aligns with CWE-89, which specifically addresses SQL injection weaknesses in software applications. The attack vector follows patterns consistent with ATT&CK technique T1071.005 for application layer protocol use and T1046 for network service scanning. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including input validation, parameterized queries, and proper access controls. The most effective long-term solution involves applying the official IBM security patches and updates, while also implementing web application firewalls and database activity monitoring systems to detect and prevent such injection attacks. Additionally, regular security assessments and code reviews should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other application components.