CVE-2008-7261 in FileNet P8 Application Engine
Summary
by MITRE
The Workplace (aka WP) component in IBM FileNet P8 Application Engine (P8AE) 3.5.1 before 3.5.1-010 records DEBUG messages containing user credentials in the log4j.xml file, which might allow local users to obtain sensitive information by reading this file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/03/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-7261 affects IBM FileNet P8 Application Engine version 3.5.1 prior to 3.5.1-010, specifically within the Workplace component. This issue represents a critical security flaw in how the system handles logging of authentication information, creating an avenue for unauthorized information disclosure. The vulnerability stems from the improper configuration of the log4j.xml file which inadvertently captures and stores user credentials during debug operations, thereby exposing sensitive authentication data to local attackers who can access these log files.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the logging framework's configuration where debug-level messages are written to the log4j.xml file without proper sanitization of sensitive data. When user authentication occurs within the Workplace component, the system generates debug messages that include credential information, which are then persisted in the log files. This flaw directly violates security best practices for credential handling and demonstrates poor input validation and output sanitization within the application's logging mechanism. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-532, which specifically addresses information exposure through log files, and represents a classic case of insecure logging practices that can lead to privilege escalation and unauthorized access to user accounts.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is significant as it provides local attackers with direct access to user credentials that can be used for unauthorized system access and privilege escalation. Once an attacker gains access to the log4j.xml file containing the debug messages with credentials, they can immediately exploit these authentication details to impersonate legitimate users and gain access to restricted system resources. The vulnerability affects the confidentiality and integrity of the system by enabling unauthorized information disclosure, potentially leading to complete system compromise. This issue particularly impacts organizations using IBM FileNet P8 Application Engine in environments where local file system access is possible, making it a serious concern for enterprise security infrastructure.
Organizations should immediately implement mitigations including updating to IBM FileNet P8 Application Engine version 3.5.1-010 or later, which contains the necessary patches to address this vulnerability. System administrators should also review and modify the log4j.xml configuration to ensure that debug messages do not contain sensitive information, implementing proper log sanitization and access controls. The recommended approach aligns with ATT&CK technique T1562.001, which focuses on disabling or modifying system protection mechanisms, and addresses the broader threat of credential exposure through system logging. Additionally, organizations should implement monitoring solutions to detect unauthorized access to log files and establish proper access controls to limit who can read these sensitive system files. This vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of secure logging practices and proper credential handling in enterprise applications, particularly in systems managing sensitive business data and user authentication information.