CVE-2012-0703 in Infosphere Information Server Information Services Framework
Summary
by MITRE
Open redirect vulnerability in Information Services Framework (ISF) in IBM InfoSphere Information Server 8.1, 8.5 before FP3, and 8.7 allows remote attackers to redirect users to arbitrary web sites and conduct phishing attacks via unspecified vectors.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/26/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2012-0703 represents a critical open redirect flaw within IBM InfoSphere Information Server's Information Services Framework component. This security weakness affects multiple versions including 8.1, 8.5 before fix pack 3, and 8.7, creating a significant risk for organizations utilizing this data integration platform. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms that fail to properly sanitize user-supplied parameters, allowing malicious actors to manipulate redirect URLs and potentially deceive users into visiting unauthorized web destinations.
The technical implementation of this flaw resides in the Information Services Framework's handling of redirect parameters within the web interface. When users interact with certain web forms or navigation elements, the system accepts external input without sufficient validation or sanitization processes. This allows attackers to inject malicious URLs that will be executed during subsequent redirect operations, creating a pathway for various attack vectors including phishing campaigns and credential theft. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and can be exploited through web-based interfaces without requiring special privileges or authentication credentials.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability enables sophisticated social engineering attacks where adversaries can craft deceptive links that appear legitimate but redirect users to malicious sites. The phishing capability represents a significant threat to enterprise security as it can bypass traditional network-level controls and leverage user trust in legitimate business applications. Organizations using affected versions of IBM InfoSphere Information Server face potential data compromise, unauthorized access to sensitive information, and reputational damage from successful phishing operations that exploit this redirect mechanism.
The vulnerability aligns with CWE-601 Open Redirect vulnerability classification, which specifically addresses situations where applications redirect users to external sites without proper validation. This weakness can be mapped to several ATT&CK techniques including initial access through phishing campaigns and credential access via social engineering. Security practitioners should note that the vulnerability's impact extends beyond simple redirection, as it can serve as a stepping stone for more complex attacks. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including input validation controls, URL sanitization routines, and network-level restrictions to prevent exploitation while planning for official vendor patches and updates.
The remediation approach requires organizations to apply the appropriate IBM fix packs and security updates, particularly for version 8.5 fix pack 3 and later releases. Network administrators should consider implementing web application firewalls and URL filtering mechanisms to detect and block suspicious redirect patterns. Additionally, user education programs should be enhanced to raise awareness about phishing attempts that may exploit this vulnerability, as the human factor remains a critical component in defending against such attacks. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to ensure that no other similar redirect mechanisms within the information server environment remain unpatched or improperly configured.