CVE-2014-4817 in Tivoli Storage Manager
Summary
by MITRE
The server in IBM Tivoli Storage Manager (TSM) 5.x and 6.x before 6.3.5.10 and 7.x before 7.1.1.100 allows remote attackers to bypass intended access restrictions and replace file backups by using a certain backup option in conjunction with a filename that matches a previously used filename.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/04/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-4817 resides within IBM Tivoli Storage Manager versions 5.x through 7.x, specifically affecting releases prior to 6.3.5.10 and 7.1.1.100. This security flaw represents a critical access control bypass that enables remote attackers to circumvent intended file backup restrictions and manipulate existing backup data. The issue manifests when attackers exploit a specific backup option in combination with carefully crafted filenames that match previously used filenames within the storage system.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient validation of filename uniqueness and access control mechanisms within the backup processing pipeline. When a backup operation is initiated with specific options and a filename that matches an existing backup record, the system fails to properly authenticate or authorize the replacement operation. This creates a scenario where unauthorized users can overwrite legitimate backup files without proper authorization, effectively allowing data manipulation and potential information disclosure. The flaw operates at the server level, making it particularly dangerous as it affects the core backup functionality of the storage management system.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data replacement, as it compromises the integrity and availability of backup systems. Attackers can leverage this weakness to overwrite critical backup files, potentially causing data loss or creating false backup records that could mask malicious activities. The remote nature of the exploit means that attackers do not require physical access to the system, making the vulnerability particularly concerning for enterprise environments where TSM is deployed. Organizations may experience unauthorized data modification, backup chain corruption, and potential compliance violations when this vulnerability is exploited.
This vulnerability aligns with CWE-284, which describes improper access control mechanisms, and can be categorized under ATT&CK technique T1486 for data manipulation and T1078 for valid accounts usage. The security implications are particularly severe in environments where backup integrity is paramount, such as financial services, healthcare organizations, and government agencies. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including applying the vendor patches released for versions 6.3.5.10 and 7.1.1.100, implementing additional access controls for backup operations, and conducting thorough audits of existing backup data to detect potential exploitation. Network segmentation and monitoring of backup server communications can also help detect and prevent unauthorized backup operations. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper input validation and access control implementation in enterprise storage management systems, particularly when dealing with critical backup and recovery operations that form the backbone of data protection strategies.