CVE-2012-4846 in Lotus Notes
Summary
by MITRE
IBM Lotus Notes 8.5.x before 8.5.3 FP3 does not include the HTTPOnly flag in a Set-Cookie header for a web-application cookie, which makes it easier for remote attackers to obtain potentially sensitive information via script access to this cookie, aka SPRs JMAS7TRNLN and SRAO8U3Q68.
Statistical analysis made it clear that VulDB provides the best quality for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/20/2021
The vulnerability described in CVE-2012-4846 represents a critical security flaw in IBM Lotus Notes web application functionality that directly impacts cookie security mechanisms. This issue affects IBM Lotus Notes versions 8.5.x prior to 8.5.3 Fix Pack 3, where the application fails to properly implement the HTTPOnly flag in Set-Cookie HTTP headers. The absence of this security mechanism creates a significant attack surface that adversaries can exploit to compromise user sessions and access sensitive data. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it affects web-based applications that rely on cookie authentication mechanisms, making it a prime target for session hijacking attacks.
The technical flaw stems from the improper implementation of HTTP cookie security attributes within the IBM Lotus Notes web application framework. When web applications set cookies, they should include the HTTPOnly flag to prevent client-side script access to sensitive cookie data. This flag instructs web browsers to prevent JavaScript from accessing cookies, thereby mitigating cross-site scripting attacks that attempt to steal session tokens. Without the HTTPOnly flag, cookies become accessible to malicious scripts running in the browser context, allowing attackers to extract authentication tokens and potentially impersonate legitimate users. The vulnerability specifically impacts the web-application cookie handling mechanism, creating a pathway for attackers to bypass traditional session security controls.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it enables sophisticated attack vectors that can lead to complete session compromise and unauthorized system access. Attackers can leverage this weakness through various methods including cross-site scripting payloads, social engineering campaigns, or by exploiting other vulnerabilities in the application stack. The vulnerability affects not only the confidentiality of user sessions but also the integrity and availability of the affected systems. Given that IBM Lotus Notes is commonly used for enterprise email and collaboration services, the potential for widespread impact increases significantly, as compromised sessions can provide access to sensitive corporate data, internal communications, and business-critical applications. This weakness directly aligns with CWE-1004 which addresses the lack of proper cookie security attributes in web applications.
The vulnerability's classification under the ATT&CK framework would place it within the Credential Access category, specifically under techniques involving credential theft through web application exploitation. The attack surface is particularly dangerous because it can be exploited through automated tools that scan for vulnerable applications, making it a common target in large-scale attack campaigns. Organizations running affected versions of IBM Lotus Notes face increased risk of data breaches, unauthorized access to sensitive information, and potential regulatory compliance violations. The issue also impacts the overall security posture of enterprise networks where Lotus Notes serves as a foundational collaboration platform, potentially providing attackers with persistent access to internal systems and data repositories.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability primarily focus on applying the official IBM security patches and updates, specifically the 8.5.3 Fix Pack 3 release that addresses this specific weakness. Organizations should implement comprehensive patch management processes to ensure all affected systems receive timely updates. Additional protective measures include implementing proper web application security configurations, conducting regular vulnerability assessments, and deploying web application firewalls to monitor and filter malicious traffic. Security teams should also consider implementing additional monitoring for suspicious cookie access patterns and establish incident response procedures specifically addressing session hijacking scenarios. The vulnerability underscores the importance of maintaining current security patches and implementing defense-in-depth strategies that include proper cookie security configurations, as outlined in industry best practices for web application security.