CVE-2015-4949 in Tivoli Storage FlashCopy Manager
Summary
by MITRE
IBM Tivoli Storage Manager for Databases: Data Protection for Microsoft SQL Server 7.1 before 7.1.2, Tivoli Storage Manager for Mail: Data Protection for Microsoft Exchange Server 7.1 before 7.1.2, and Tivoli Storage FlashCopy Manager 4.1 before 4.1.2 place cleartext passwords in exception messages, which allows physically proximate attackers to obtain sensitive information by reading GUI pop-up windows, a different vulnerability than CVE-2015-6557.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/13/2022
This vulnerability resides in IBM Tivoli Storage Manager products that handle database and email backup operations, specifically affecting versions prior to 7.1.2 for SQL Server protection and Exchange Server protection, as well as FlashCopy Manager 4.1 before 4.1.2. The flaw represents a critical information disclosure issue where the software inadvertently logs cleartext passwords within exception messages generated during error conditions. When system errors occur during backup operations, the application displays these messages in graphical user interface pop-up windows, making sensitive authentication credentials visible to anyone who can observe the screen. This vulnerability is distinct from CVE-2015-6557, which addresses different aspects of credential handling within the same product line, and demonstrates a fundamental weakness in how the software manages error reporting and sensitive data exposure.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper error handling practices within the Tivoli Storage Manager components. When backup operations fail, the system generates exception messages that contain full authentication credentials rather than masking or removing sensitive information from error logs. The cleartext passwords appear in GUI pop-up windows, which are typically displayed on screen for system administrators to troubleshoot issues. This design flaw violates established security principles for handling sensitive data and represents a clear violation of the principle of least privilege. The vulnerability is classified as a CWE-209, which specifically addresses "Information Exposure Through Exception Message" and falls under the broader category of information disclosure vulnerabilities. From an attack perspective, this represents a low-privilege, high-impact vector since attackers only need physical proximity to observe screen content rather than requiring network access or authentication.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple credential theft, as it can lead to unauthorized access to database systems and email infrastructure that the backup software protects. An attacker with physical access to a system running vulnerable Tivoli Storage Manager components can easily capture passwords from visible error messages, potentially gaining access to entire database environments or email systems. This vulnerability undermines the security posture of organizations relying on these backup solutions, as it creates an attack surface that doesn't require sophisticated techniques or network infiltration. The exposure occurs during normal operational conditions when error messages are displayed, making detection difficult and the risk persistent. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability aligns with T1078.004, which covers "Valid Accounts: Cloud Accounts" and T1566, covering "Phishing", as it provides attackers with legitimate credentials that can be used for further attacks. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous in shared or unsecured environments where multiple users have access to the same physical systems.
Organizations should immediately upgrade to the patched versions of IBM Tivoli Storage Manager components, specifically versions 7.1.2 for the database and email protection modules, and 4.1.2 for FlashCopy Manager. Security administrators should implement additional monitoring to detect unusual error message patterns that might indicate credential exposure. The patch addresses the root cause by ensuring that sensitive information is stripped from exception messages before display, implementing proper input sanitization and output filtering. Organizations should also review their physical security measures to limit unauthorized access to systems running vulnerable software, as the vulnerability relies on physical proximity rather than network-based attacks. System administrators should conduct regular audits of error logs and GUI interactions to identify potential exposure scenarios. The remediation process should include comprehensive testing to ensure that the patches don't disrupt normal backup operations while maintaining the security improvements. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing additional logging controls and access restrictions to minimize the potential impact of similar vulnerabilities in other systems within their infrastructure.