CVE-2008-5327 in Rational ClearQuest
Summary
by MITRE
The ClearQuest Maintenance Tool in IBM Rational ClearQuest 7 before 7.1 stores the database password in cleartext in an object in a ClearQuest connection profile or export file, which allows remote authenticated users to obtain sensitive information by locating the password object within the object tree.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/26/2017
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-5327 represents a critical security flaw in IBM Rational ClearQuest 7 before version 7.1, specifically within its ClearQuest Maintenance Tool component. This issue stems from improper credential handling practices where database passwords are stored in plaintext format within connection profiles or export files, creating an inherent security risk that can be exploited by authenticated attackers. The vulnerability exists at the application level and affects the confidentiality aspect of the CIA triad, as it directly exposes sensitive authentication credentials to unauthorized access.
The technical implementation of this flaw occurs when the ClearQuest Maintenance Tool serializes connection profile objects that contain database authentication information. During the object tree construction process, the database password is stored in cleartext rather than being properly encrypted or hashed, making it accessible through standard file inspection methods. This cleartext storage violates fundamental security principles and creates a persistent exposure point within the system architecture. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it allows remote authenticated users to directly access the password object within the serialized object tree structure, eliminating the need for complex exploitation techniques.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple credential theft, as it can enable attackers to gain unauthorized access to underlying database systems and potentially escalate their privileges within the ClearQuest environment. Remote authenticated users who can access the connection profile files or export data can directly extract the cleartext database passwords, which may then be used to access the database directly, bypassing application-level controls. This exposure can lead to data breaches, unauthorized data modification, and potential system compromise. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-312 (Cleartext Storage of Sensitive Information) and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1552.001 (Unsecured Credentials) in the credential access category.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability should immediately implement mitigations including upgrading to IBM Rational ClearQuest 7.1 or later versions where this issue has been resolved. Additionally, administrators should review and restrict access to connection profile files and export data containing sensitive information, implement proper file permissions, and consider alternative authentication mechanisms that do not rely on cleartext credential storage. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of secure credential handling practices and proper application design principles that prevent sensitive data exposure through serialization mechanisms. Organizations should also consider implementing monitoring solutions to detect unauthorized access attempts to connection profile files and establish incident response procedures for credential exposure events.