CVE-2013-0487 in Lotus Domino
Summary
by MITRE
The Java Console in IBM Domino 8.5.x allows remote authenticated users to hijack temporary credentials by leveraging knowledge of configuration details, aka SPR KLYH8TNNDN.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/06/2021
The vulnerability described in CVE-2013-0487 affects IBM Domino version 8.5.x and specifically targets the Java Console component. This issue represents a significant security flaw that enables remote authenticated attackers to exploit temporary credential hijacking through knowledge of system configuration details. The Java Console in IBM Domino serves as a management interface that allows administrators to perform various operational tasks including configuration changes, system monitoring, and administrative functions. When properly configured, this console should only be accessible to authorized personnel with appropriate authentication credentials. However, the vulnerability arises from insufficient validation mechanisms within the console's credential handling process, allowing attackers who have already established authentication to manipulate temporary credentials that are typically used for session management and administrative tasks.
The technical flaw stems from the improper handling of temporary credentials within the IBM Domino Java Console implementation. Attackers with valid authentication credentials can leverage their existing access to extract or manipulate temporary credential information that is typically generated during administrative sessions. This weakness creates an attack vector where authenticated users can potentially escalate their privileges or extend their access beyond normal operational boundaries. The vulnerability specifically exploits the configuration details that are accessible through the console interface, suggesting that the system's credential management mechanism does not adequately separate temporary credential generation from the authentication process. This allows attackers to gain unauthorized access to additional system resources or administrative functions that should normally be restricted to authorized personnel only. The issue is classified under CWE-284 which relates to improper access control, specifically addressing weaknesses in the authorization mechanisms that govern how temporary credentials are managed and validated.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple credential theft and can potentially lead to complete system compromise if attackers can leverage the hijacked credentials to access sensitive administrative functions. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability could potentially perform unauthorized configuration changes, access restricted data, modify system settings, or escalate privileges to gain broader system access. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it requires only authenticated access to the system, meaning that an attacker who has already compromised legitimate user credentials can use this weakness to further compromise the system. This type of attack aligns with ATT&CK technique T1566 which covers credential harvesting and T1078 which addresses valid accounts for maintaining access. The impact is significant as it undermines the fundamental security model of the IBM Domino system, potentially allowing attackers to maintain persistent access while appearing to be legitimate users.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2013-0487 should focus on implementing stronger credential validation and isolation mechanisms within the IBM Domino Java Console. Organizations should ensure that temporary credentials are properly isolated from the authentication process and that the console enforces strict access controls for all administrative functions. The recommended approach includes applying the vendor-provided security patches and updates that address this specific vulnerability, as well as implementing additional monitoring for unusual credential usage patterns within the console. Network segmentation and access control measures should be implemented to limit the exposure of the Java Console to only authorized administrative workstations. Security administrators should also consider implementing multi-factor authentication for console access and regular audits of console usage to detect potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper credential management and access control implementations, particularly in administrative interfaces where temporary credentials are used for session management. Organizations should also review their configuration practices to ensure that sensitive system details are not exposed through the console interface and that proper separation of duties is maintained between different administrative functions.