CVE-2009-0507 in WebSphere Process Server
Summary
by MITRE
IBM WebSphere Process Server (WPS) 6.1.2 before 6.1.2.3 and 6.2 before 6.2.0.1 does not properly restrict configuration data during an export of the cluster configuration file from the administrative console, which allows remote authenticated users to obtain the (1) JMSAPI, (2) ESCALATION, and (3) MAILSESSION (aka mail session) cleartext passwords via vectors involving access to a cluster member.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/30/2017
This vulnerability resides in IBM WebSphere Process Server versions 6.1.2 prior to 6.1.2.3 and 6.2 prior to 6.2.0.1, where the administrative console fails to adequately sanitize configuration data during cluster configuration file exports. The flaw represents a critical information disclosure issue that directly violates security principles of least privilege and data protection. When administrators export cluster configuration files through the administrative console, sensitive credential information becomes exposed in cleartext format within the exported data, creating a significant attack surface for malicious actors who gain authenticated access to the system.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and output sanitization within the export functionality of the WebSphere administrative console. Specifically, the system does not properly filter or redact sensitive configuration parameters during the export process, allowing JMSAPI, ESCALATION, and MAILSESSION credential information to be included in the exported cluster configuration file. These credential types represent different categories of system access information where JMSAPI credentials provide messaging system access, ESCALATION credentials enable privilege escalation capabilities, and MAILSESSION credentials control email notification services. The vulnerability operates under CWE-200 (Information Exposure) and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1552.001 (Credentials In Files) as attackers can harvest these cleartext credentials from exported configuration data.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple credential exposure, as it provides attackers with multiple attack vectors for system compromise. With access to JMSAPI credentials, attackers can potentially intercept or manipulate message queue communications within the enterprise environment. ESCALATION credentials could enable privilege escalation attacks, allowing unauthorized users to assume higher-privileged roles within the WebSphere environment. MAILSESSION credentials provide access to email notification systems, which could be leveraged for further reconnaissance or to establish command and control channels. The vulnerability's remote nature means that authenticated attackers can exploit this issue from any location within the network, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where administrative access is granted to multiple users.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability should immediately implement patch management procedures to upgrade to IBM WebSphere Process Server versions 6.1.2.3 or 6.2.0.1, which contain the necessary security fixes. Additionally, system administrators should conduct immediate reviews of exported configuration files to ensure no sensitive information has been inadvertently exposed. Network segmentation and access control measures should be strengthened to limit the number of users with administrative privileges and access to the administrative console. Regular security auditing of exported configuration data and implementation of automated monitoring systems can help detect unauthorized export activities. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper credential handling and configuration management within enterprise application servers, where the exposure of authentication credentials can lead to complete system compromise and unauthorized access to sensitive enterprise data.