CVE-2015-1895 in InfoSphere Optim Workload Replay
Summary
by MITRE
IBM InfoSphere Optim Workload Replay 2.x before 2.1.0.3 relies on client-side code to verify authorization, which allows remote attackers to bypass intended access restrictions by modifying the client behavior.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/31/2019
IBM InfoSphere Optim Workload Replay version 2.x before 2.1.0.3 contains a critical authorization bypass vulnerability that stems from improper security implementation on the client-side of the application architecture. This vulnerability resides in the client-side code verification mechanisms that are responsible for validating user permissions and access rights. The flaw allows remote attackers to manipulate client-side components and effectively circumvent the intended access controls that should prevent unauthorized system interactions. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-676, which specifically addresses the use of dangerous functions and improper handling of authorization checks in software systems. This weakness represents a fundamental architectural flaw where the security model relies on client-side validation rather than implementing robust server-side authorization controls.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when attackers modify client-side code or behavior to bypass the authorization checks that are typically implemented within the client application. This modification can involve changing code parameters, altering API calls, or manipulating the client application's execution flow to gain access to restricted functionalities. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it allows attackers to perform actions that should be restricted to authorized users only, potentially enabling them to execute unauthorized operations within the workload replay environment. The attack vector is remote, meaning that adversaries do not need physical access to the system to exploit this vulnerability, and can leverage network-based attacks to modify client-side behavior and gain unauthorized access to system resources.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized access, as it can enable attackers to manipulate workload replay data, access sensitive information, and potentially disrupt the integrity of the replay operations. This vulnerability can compromise the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the information management system by allowing unauthorized users to access or modify critical workload replay functionality. The implications are particularly severe in enterprise environments where workload replay systems are used to test and validate system performance under various load conditions. Attackers could potentially manipulate replay data to mask security incidents, disrupt legitimate testing operations, or gain access to proprietary workload information that could be exploited for competitive advantage or further attacks.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including updating to IBM InfoSphere Optim Workload Replay version 2.1.0.3 or later, which addresses this specific authorization bypass vulnerability. The remediation process should also include reviewing and strengthening authorization controls within the application to ensure that critical access checks are performed server-side rather than relying on client-side validation. Security configurations should be audited to verify that proper authentication and authorization mechanisms are in place, and network segmentation should be implemented to limit access to the workload replay environment. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing runtime application self-protection measures and continuous monitoring of client-side behavior to detect potential modifications that could indicate exploitation attempts. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1078 which covers valid accounts and privilege escalation, as the attack exploits legitimate access mechanisms through unauthorized modification of client behavior rather than brute force or credential theft methods.