CVE-2011-3391 in Rational Build Forge
Summary
by MITRE
IBM Rational Build Forge 7.1.2 relies on client-side JavaScript code to enforce the EditSecurity permission requirement for the Export Key File function, which allows remote authenticated users to read a key file by removing a disable attribute in the Security sub-menu.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/16/2018
This vulnerability in IBM Rational Build Forge 7.1.2 represents a critical access control flaw that undermines the security model of the application. The issue stems from the application's improper implementation of permission checks for the Export Key File function, where the security enforcement mechanism is delegated to client-side JavaScript rather than being properly validated on the server. This design decision creates a fundamental weakness in the application's defense-in-depth approach, as client-side controls can be easily manipulated by malicious users who possess valid authentication credentials.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through a simple yet effective method where authenticated users can manipulate the web interface by removing the disable attribute from the Security sub-menu elements. This manipulation allows attackers to bypass the intended EditSecurity permission requirements that should prevent unauthorized access to key files. The flaw demonstrates a classic case of insecure client-side validation, where the server fails to independently verify that the requesting user possesses the appropriate privileges before executing sensitive operations. This type of vulnerability is categorized under CWE-602, which specifically addresses client-side enforcement of server-side security checks.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability enables authenticated attackers to access sensitive cryptographic key files that should only be available to users with proper administrative permissions. The exposure of key files can lead to significant security implications including unauthorized access to protected systems, potential data breaches, and compromise of the entire build and deployment infrastructure. The vulnerability affects organizations that rely on Rational Build Forge for their continuous integration and deployment processes, where key files often contain credentials, encryption keys, or other sensitive operational data that could be exploited for further attacks within the network.
The attack vector for this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1078 which covers valid accounts and privilege escalation through legitimate credentials. Since the vulnerability requires only valid authentication, it represents a low-effort attack that can be executed by users who already have access to the system. This makes the vulnerability particularly dangerous as it can be exploited by insiders or compromised legitimate users without requiring additional reconnaissance or exploitation techniques. The security implications extend beyond the immediate access to key files, as attackers could potentially use these credentials to escalate privileges within the build environment or access other systems that rely on the compromised key material.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including applying the vendor-provided patches and updates, reviewing user permissions to ensure proper principle of least privilege, and implementing additional monitoring for key file access operations. The remediation process should include server-side validation of all security permissions before executing sensitive operations, eliminating reliance on client-side controls for security enforcement. Additionally, organizations should conduct comprehensive security reviews of their application frameworks to identify similar client-side validation issues that could expose other functions to similar vulnerabilities. The incident highlights the critical importance of server-side validation and proper access control implementation, reinforcing industry best practices outlined in security frameworks such as NIST SP 800-53 and ISO 27001 for secure application development and deployment.