CVE-2015-7434 in Capacity Management Analytics
Summary
by MITRE
IBM Capacity Management Analytics 2.1.0.0 allows local users to discover encrypted usernames and passwords by leveraging access to the CMA install machine. IBM X-Force ID: 107863.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/24/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-7434 affects IBM Capacity Management Analytics version 2.1.0.0, representing a critical security flaw that exposes sensitive authentication credentials through improper access controls. This issue arises from the application's failure to adequately protect encrypted credential storage mechanisms, allowing local attackers with access to the installation machine to extract username and password information. The vulnerability specifically targets the configuration files and data storage components where authentication credentials are maintained in an encrypted format, yet the encryption implementation contains weaknesses that permit unauthorized extraction.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient access controls and improper privilege management within the IBM Capacity Management Analytics installation environment. When local users gain access to the installation machine, they can leverage existing file system permissions and access patterns to locate and extract encrypted credential data. This represents a classic case of insufficient authorization checks where the system fails to properly enforce access restrictions on sensitive configuration files. The flaw operates under the broader category of credential exposure vulnerabilities, which are categorized under CWE-256 in the Common Weakness Enumeration framework, specifically addressing improper privilege management and weak access control mechanisms.
The operational impact of CVE-2015-7434 extends beyond simple credential theft, as it provides attackers with potentially elevated privileges within the analytics environment and associated systems. Local access to encrypted credentials can enable attackers to escalate their privileges and gain unauthorized access to additional system resources, particularly when these credentials are used across multiple applications or services. The vulnerability also creates opportunities for lateral movement within network environments where the analytics system interfaces with other infrastructure components, as the extracted credentials may be valid for additional systems. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to techniques involving credential access and privilege escalation, specifically leveraging local system access to extract authentication information for further exploitation.
Organizations deploying IBM Capacity Management Analytics 2.1.0.0 face significant security risks from this vulnerability, particularly in environments where multiple users have local access to installation machines or where administrative privileges are not properly segregated. The exposure of encrypted credentials creates a persistent threat vector that can remain active as long as the vulnerable system remains operational. Mitigation strategies should focus on implementing proper access controls, restricting local system access to installation directories, and ensuring that credential storage mechanisms are properly secured against unauthorized access. The recommended remediation includes upgrading to a patched version of IBM Capacity Management Analytics, implementing strict file system permissions, and conducting regular security audits to identify potential access control weaknesses that could enable similar credential exposure scenarios. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing network segmentation and monitoring solutions to detect unauthorized access attempts to sensitive system components.