CVE-2014-4776 in License Metric Tool
Summary
by MITRE
IBM License Metric Tool 9 before 9.1.0.2 does not have an off autocomplete attribute for authentication fields, which makes it easier for remote attackers to obtain access by leveraging an unattended workstation.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/19/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-4776 affects IBM License Metric Tool version 9 prior to 9.1.0.2 and represents a significant security flaw in the authentication mechanism design. This issue stems from the absence of the autocomplete attribute being properly disabled on authentication fields within the web interface, creating a potential attack vector that could be exploited by remote adversaries. The vulnerability specifically targets the authentication process and represents a classic example of insufficient input validation and security misconfiguration that can lead to unauthorized access. According to CWE-615, this flaw falls under the category of information exposure through improper input handling, where sensitive data is inadvertently exposed through web forms that should be protected from automatic completion features. The security implications extend beyond simple credential theft, as this vulnerability can be particularly dangerous in environments where workstations are left unattended, creating a window of opportunity for attackers to exploit the automatic completion features of web browsers.
The technical flaw manifests when users access the IBM License Metric Tool web interface and enter their credentials into authentication fields that lack the autocomplete="off" attribute in their HTML markup. Modern web browsers typically store authentication credentials in forms that do not explicitly disable autocomplete functionality, which means that when users return to the login page, they may be presented with auto-completed username and password fields. This behavior becomes problematic when the workstation is left unattended, as an attacker who gains physical access to the machine could easily leverage this automatic completion feature to obtain valid credentials without needing to perform more sophisticated attacks. The vulnerability is classified under ATT&CK technique T1566.001, which involves credential access through phishing and social engineering, as the attacker can exploit the automatic completion feature to bypass the need for manual credential entry. The flaw essentially creates a security weakness in the authentication layer that undermines the principle of least privilege and provides an attacker with an easier path to system access.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple credential theft, as it creates a significant risk in enterprise environments where multiple users may share workstations or where systems are left unattended during work hours. IBM License Metric Tool is typically used for software license tracking and reporting, which means that unauthorized access to the system could potentially lead to data exposure, license manipulation, or the ability to view sensitive information about software usage across the organization. In environments where the tool is used for compliance reporting or audit purposes, this vulnerability could compromise the integrity of license data and potentially lead to regulatory violations. The risk is particularly elevated in shared or public workstations where multiple users may access the same system, as the automatic completion feature could expose credentials from previous users. Organizations that have not applied the necessary patches to address this vulnerability may be subject to unauthorized access attempts that could escalate to more serious security incidents, including privilege escalation or data exfiltration.
The mitigation strategy for CVE-2014-4776 requires immediate implementation of the official IBM patch or upgrade to version 9.1.0.2 or later, which addresses the missing autocomplete attribute in the authentication fields. System administrators should also conduct a comprehensive review of all web applications within their environment to identify similar vulnerabilities in authentication forms, as this type of flaw is common in legacy applications. Security teams should implement additional controls such as session timeout mechanisms, multi-factor authentication, and regular security assessments to reduce the risk exposure. The remediation process should include disabling browser autocomplete features for all sensitive input fields, implementing proper input validation, and ensuring that authentication forms are properly configured to prevent credential storage. Organizations should also consider implementing network-based controls such as firewalls and access control lists to limit access to the IBM License Metric Tool system, and establish monitoring procedures to detect unauthorized access attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of security by design principles and the need for thorough security testing of web applications, particularly those handling sensitive authentication data, as highlighted by security frameworks such as the OWASP Top Ten and NIST cybersecurity guidelines.