CVE-2015-4996 in Rational ClearQuest
Summary
by MITRE
IBM Rational ClearQuest 7.1.x and 8.0.0.x before 8.0.0.17 and 8.0.1.x before 8.0.1.10 allows local users to spoof database servers and discover credentials via unspecified vectors.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/02/2022
IBM Rational ClearQuest versions 7.1.x and 8.0.0.x before 8.0.0.17 and 8.0.1.x before 8.0.1.10 contain a security vulnerability that enables local attackers to spoof database servers and obtain credentials through unspecified attack vectors. This flaw represents a significant compromise in the authentication and authorization mechanisms of the software, potentially allowing unauthorized access to sensitive database resources. The vulnerability stems from insufficient validation of database server identities and credential handling processes within the application's connection management system.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the application's failure to properly authenticate database server endpoints during connection establishment. Attackers with local access can exploit this weakness to manipulate connection parameters and present falsified server identities to the ClearQuest application. This spoofing capability extends beyond simple network manipulation to encompass credential exposure through the application's database interaction protocols. The unspecified vectors suggest that multiple attack paths may exist, potentially including man-in-the-middle scenarios, connection hijacking, or exploitation of trust relationships within the software's architecture.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond immediate credential theft to encompass broader system compromise possibilities. Local users who exploit this vulnerability can potentially gain access to database backends that contain sensitive business information, user data, and configuration details. This access could enable attackers to modify or delete critical data, escalate privileges within the database environment, or establish persistent access points for further exploitation. The vulnerability particularly affects organizations relying on ClearQuest for workflow management and database integration, where database credentials are frequently used for automated processes and system operations.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including applying the vendor-provided patches for versions 8.0.0.17 and 8.0.1.10, which address the credential exposure and server spoofing mechanisms. Network segmentation and access controls should be strengthened to limit local user privileges and reduce the attack surface. Database connection monitoring and credential rotation procedures should be enhanced to detect and respond to unauthorized access attempts. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-287 which addresses improper authentication issues, and maps to ATT&CK technique T1555.003 for credential access through service-specific methods. Regular security assessments should include verification of database connection integrity and proper implementation of authentication protocols to prevent similar vulnerabilities from emerging in other components of the system infrastructure.