CVE-2013-5422 in Rational Clearcase
Summary
by MITRE
The Web Client in IBM Rational ClearQuest 7.1 through 7.1.2.12, 8.0.0.x before 8.0.0.9, and 8.0.1.x before 8.0.1.2, when a multi-database dataset exists, allows remote attackers to read database names via unspecified vectors.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/18/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2013-5422 affects IBM Rational ClearQuest versions ranging from 7.1 through 7.1.2.12, 8.0.0.x before 8.0.0.9, and 8.0.1.x before 8.0.1.2. This issue resides within the Web Client component of the software and represents a significant information disclosure flaw that impacts organizations relying on multi-database configurations. The vulnerability manifests when the system processes multi-database datasets, creating an attack surface that exposes sensitive database naming information to remote threat actors. This flaw falls under the category of information disclosure vulnerabilities, specifically categorized as CWE-200 in the Common Weakness Enumeration framework, which encompasses weaknesses that result in the exposure of sensitive information to unauthorized parties.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from improper handling of database metadata within the Web Client interface when multiple databases are configured within the same dataset. Attackers can exploit unspecified vectors to extract database names from the system without requiring authentication or elevated privileges. This represents a classic case of insufficient input validation and output sanitization where the application fails to properly control access to internal system information. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates at the application layer, allowing remote exploitation from any location without the need for physical access to the system. According to ATT&CK framework categorization, this vulnerability aligns with T1213 - Data from Information Repositories, where adversaries attempt to access data from databases or information repositories through application-level attacks.
The operational impact of CVE-2013-5422 extends beyond simple information disclosure, as database names provide attackers with critical reconnaissance data that can be leveraged for subsequent attacks. Knowledge of database names enables threat actors to craft more targeted attacks against specific database systems, potentially leading to further compromise of database credentials, schemas, and data access points. Organizations using multi-database configurations face heightened risk since the vulnerability exposes the entire database architecture to remote attackers. This information can facilitate advanced persistent threat campaigns where attackers use the discovered database names to map out the complete database infrastructure, potentially identifying weak points in database security and access controls. The vulnerability's remote exploitability means that attackers can discover this information from anywhere on the internet, making it particularly dangerous for organizations with exposed web interfaces.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate attention through official IBM security patches and updates. Organizations should ensure all affected ClearQuest installations are updated to versions that address this information disclosure flaw. Network segmentation and firewall rules should be implemented to restrict access to the Web Client interface, limiting exposure to trusted networks only. Additionally, implementing proper input validation and output filtering mechanisms can help prevent unauthorized access to database metadata. Regular security assessments should include verification of database name exposure through penetration testing and vulnerability scanning tools. The remediation process should also involve monitoring for any suspicious access patterns or attempts to enumerate database information. Organizations should also consider implementing database access logging and alerting mechanisms to detect unauthorized attempts to access database metadata, as this vulnerability represents a potential precursor to more serious database compromise attacks.