CVE-2015-2008 in Security QRadar SIEM
Summary
by MITRE
IBM Security QRadar SIEM 7.1.x before 7.1 MR2 Patch 12 and 7.2.x before 7.2.6 includes SSH private keys during backup operations, which allows remote authenticated administrators to obtain sensitive information by reading a backup archive.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/26/2018
IBM Security QRadar SIEM versions 7.1.x prior to 7.1 MR2 Patch 12 and 7.2.x prior to 7.2.6 contain a critical information disclosure vulnerability that affects the backup and restore functionality of the system. This vulnerability stems from the improper handling of cryptographic materials during backup operations, where SSH private keys are inadvertently included in backup archives without adequate protection mechanisms. The flaw represents a significant security weakness that directly violates the principle of least privilege and proper credential management practices.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs within the backup module of the QRadar SIEM platform where the system fails to properly isolate or exclude sensitive cryptographic materials during the archival process. When backup operations are executed, the system includes SSH private keys alongside other configuration data, creating an attack surface that allows authenticated administrators to access these sensitive materials through the backup archive extraction process. This design flaw enables attackers who have already gained administrative access to potentially escalate their privileges or compromise additional systems within the network infrastructure.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability creates a substantial risk for organizations relying on QRadar SIEM for security monitoring and incident response. The exposure of SSH private keys through backup archives provides attackers with persistent access mechanisms that can be used to bypass traditional security controls and maintain long-term presence within the network. The vulnerability affects both the 7.1.x and 7.2.x release lines, indicating a widespread issue that impacts multiple versions of the platform. This information disclosure vulnerability can be classified under CWE-312 (Sensitive Data Exposure) and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1552.001 (Unsecured Credentials) in the adversary tactics framework.
The security implications extend beyond immediate credential compromise, as SSH private keys can be used to establish unauthorized connections to network devices, servers, and other systems that trust the compromised key. This vulnerability undermines the integrity of the entire security infrastructure by providing attackers with a mechanism to maintain access even if other authentication methods are subsequently secured. Organizations may face compliance violations under various regulatory frameworks including pci dss, hipaa, and soc 2, due to the exposure of sensitive cryptographic materials. The vulnerability is particularly concerning in environments where QRadar SIEM is used for critical security monitoring and where backup operations are regularly performed as part of standard operational procedures.
The recommended mitigation strategy involves immediate deployment of the vendor-provided patches for both affected release lines, specifically 7.1 MR2 Patch 12 and 7.2.6. Organizations should also implement additional monitoring to detect unauthorized backup access attempts and ensure that backup archives are properly secured with appropriate access controls. Security teams should conduct comprehensive reviews of backup procedures and implement mandatory credential rotation for all systems that utilize the compromised versions. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper data classification and handling during backup operations, emphasizing the need for robust information protection controls that prevent sensitive materials from being inadvertently exposed through system maintenance procedures.