CVE-2015-1901 in InfoSphere Information Server
Summary
by MITRE
The installer in IBM InfoSphere Information Server 8.5 through 11.3 before 11.3.1.2 allows local users to obtain sensitive information via unspecified commands.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/22/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-1901 affects IBM InfoSphere Information Server versions 8.5 through 11.3 before 11.3.1.2, specifically within the installer component. This issue represents a sensitive data exposure vulnerability that enables local users to access confidential information through unspecified commands. The installer module serves as a critical component during the software deployment process, making it a potential attack vector for adversaries seeking to gather system intelligence or credentials. The vulnerability stems from improper handling of commands within the installation framework, creating opportunities for information disclosure that could compromise the security posture of the affected system.
The technical flaw manifests in the installer's command processing mechanism where local users can execute unauthorized operations that reveal sensitive system information. This type of vulnerability typically falls under CWE-200, which addresses information exposure, and may also relate to CWE-732, which covers incorrect permission assignment. The installer process likely operates with elevated privileges during installation, creating a window where local users can exploit command execution paths to obtain information that should remain protected. The unspecified nature of the commands suggests that the vulnerability may involve multiple attack vectors or that the exact mechanisms have not been fully documented, making it particularly challenging to assess the complete scope of potential information disclosure.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as the acquired sensitive data could provide attackers with insights into system configurations, user credentials, or installation parameters that facilitate further attacks. Local users with access to the system can leverage this weakness to gather intelligence that might be used in subsequent exploitation attempts, including privilege escalation or lateral movement within the network. The vulnerability affects organizations using IBM InfoSphere Information Server across multiple versions, indicating a widespread potential impact that requires immediate attention from security teams. This type of information disclosure vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1083, which covers file and directory discovery, and T1005, which addresses data from local system, making it particularly concerning for enterprise environments where information server installations are common.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2015-1901 should focus on applying the vendor-provided security patches and updates that address the installer command processing flaws. Organizations must ensure that all instances of IBM InfoSphere Information Server are updated to version 11.3.1.2 or later, where the vulnerability has been resolved. System administrators should also implement proper access controls to limit local user privileges during installation processes and conduct regular security assessments of installation components. Additional protective measures include monitoring for unauthorized installation activities and implementing network segmentation to limit access to systems running the vulnerable software. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of secure installation processes and proper privilege management, as highlighted in security frameworks such as NIST SP 800-53 controls related to system and information integrity. Organizations should also consider implementing automated patch management solutions to ensure timely deployment of security updates across their infrastructure, particularly for critical components like enterprise information servers that handle sensitive data.