CVE-2016-3016 in Security Access Manager For Web
Summary
by MITRE
IBM Security Access Manager for Web processes patches, image backups and other updates without sufficiently verifying the origin and integrity of the code, which could allow an authenticated attacker to load malicious code.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/11/2022
IBM Security Access Manager for Web contains a critical vulnerability in its update and patch processing mechanism that fails to properly validate the authenticity and integrity of code being installed. This flaw exists within the software's content verification procedures where it does not adequately authenticate the source of patches, image backups, or other updates before deployment. The vulnerability stems from insufficient cryptographic verification and digital signature validation processes that should ensure only legitimate and trusted code modifications are accepted by the system. An authenticated attacker who has gained access to the system with valid credentials can exploit this weakness to inject malicious code into the update process, potentially compromising the entire security infrastructure.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability allows an attacker to manipulate the update mechanism by creating or modifying patch files that appear legitimate to the system's verification processes. This weakness creates a path for privilege escalation and persistent backdoor installation where malicious code can be executed with the privileges of the update process. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-284 Access Control and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068 Valid Accounts and T1021.002 Windows Remote Services to establish and maintain unauthorized access. The flaw specifically impacts the integrity protection mechanisms that should validate code signatures and verify the authenticity of update packages before installation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code injection as it fundamentally undermines the trust model of the security access management system. Once exploited, attackers can install rootkits, backdoors, or other malicious components that persist across system reboots and remain undetected by standard monitoring mechanisms. The vulnerability affects the integrity of the entire security infrastructure by allowing unauthorized code execution within the trusted update process, potentially enabling attackers to bypass other security controls and maintain long-term access to protected environments. This weakness creates a persistent threat vector that can be leveraged for data exfiltration, privilege escalation, and lateral movement within networked environments.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including enabling strong cryptographic verification for all update processes, implementing network segmentation to restrict update access, and deploying enhanced monitoring for suspicious update activities. System administrators must ensure that all update packages are validated through multiple independent verification mechanisms and that digital signatures are properly checked before installation. The remediation strategy should include implementing principle of least privilege for update processes, enabling detailed logging of all update activities, and establishing automated verification procedures that align with NIST SP 800-53 security controls. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing network-based intrusion detection systems to monitor for anomalous update behavior and ensure that all systems maintain proper audit trails of code modifications.