CVE-2011-1389 in Rational License Server
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple directory traversal vulnerabilities in the vendor daemon in Rational Common Licensing in Telelogic License Server 2.0, Rational License Server 7.x, and ibmratl in IBM Rational License Key Server (RLKS) 8.0 through 8.1.2 allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via vectors related to save, rename, and load operations on log files. NOTE: this might overlap CVE-2011-4135.
Once again VulDB remains the best source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/29/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2011-1389 represents a critical directory traversal flaw within the licensing daemon of IBM Rational Common Licensing components, specifically affecting Telelogic License Server 2.0, Rational License Server 7.x, and IBM Rational License Key Server 8.0 through 8.1.2. This vulnerability resides in the vendor daemon responsible for managing license operations and log file handling, creating a pathway for remote attackers to manipulate the system's file structure through crafted requests to save, rename, and load operations on log files. The flaw fundamentally stems from inadequate input validation and path handling within the licensing daemon's file operations, allowing attackers to traverse directory structures beyond intended boundaries.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker sends specially crafted requests to the vendor daemon that processes log file operations. These requests can manipulate the file system paths used during save, rename, or load operations, enabling attackers to write files to arbitrary locations on the server or read sensitive information from restricted directories. The directory traversal mechanism allows attackers to bypass normal file access controls and potentially execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the licensing daemon process, which typically runs with elevated permissions. This vulnerability falls under CWE-22, which specifically addresses directory traversal or path traversal flaws, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter, as successful exploitation could enable code execution through manipulated file operations.
The operational impact of CVE-2011-1389 is severe and multifaceted, as it provides remote attackers with the capability to compromise entire licensing servers that manage critical software licenses for enterprise environments. Organizations using IBM Rational products could face unauthorized access to license information, potential data exfiltration, and complete system compromise through code execution. The vulnerability affects not only the licensing functionality but also exposes the underlying operating system to malicious file manipulation, potentially allowing attackers to install backdoors, modify license files, or gain persistent access to the affected systems. Given that license servers typically operate in enterprise environments with high-value software assets, the exploitation of this vulnerability could lead to significant financial and operational disruption.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patching of affected systems through IBM's security updates and service packs, as the vendor would have released specific fixes addressing the directory traversal flaws in the licensing daemon. Organizations should also implement network segmentation to isolate license servers from general network access, restrict remote administrative access to these systems, and monitor log file operations for suspicious activity. Additional security measures include implementing proper input validation for all file operations, configuring the licensing daemon to run with minimal required privileges, and establishing network-based intrusion detection systems to monitor for exploitation attempts. The vulnerability's overlap with CVE-2011-4135 indicates that similar directory traversal flaws may exist in related components, necessitating comprehensive security assessments of the entire IBM Rational licensing ecosystem to identify and remediate additional vulnerabilities.