CVE-2016-3043 in Security Access Manager For Web
Summary
by MITRE
IBM Security Access Manager for Web could allow a remote attacker to obtain sensitive information, caused by the failure to properly enable HTTP Strict Transport Security. An attacker could exploit this vulnerability to obtain sensitive information using man in the middle techniques.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/09/2020
IBM Security Access Manager for Web contains a critical security flaw that undermines the protection of sensitive data transmitted over network connections. This vulnerability stems from the improper implementation of HTTP Strict Transport Security (HSTS) mechanisms within the web application framework. The absence of proper HSTS configuration creates a window of opportunity for malicious actors to intercept and manipulate communication between clients and the vulnerable server.
The technical nature of this vulnerability falls under the category of insufficient transport layer protection, which is classified as CWE-319 in the Common Weakness Enumeration catalog. When HSTS is not properly enabled, the application fails to enforce secure HTTPS connections exclusively, leaving users susceptible to various man-in-the-middle attacks. Attackers can exploit this weakness by intercepting network traffic and potentially obtaining session tokens, authentication credentials, or other sensitive information that should remain protected within encrypted channels.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it fundamentally compromises the security posture of organizations relying on IBM Security Access Manager for Web. Network traffic that should be protected through encrypted channels becomes vulnerable to eavesdropping and interception attacks, particularly in environments where users connect through untrusted networks or public Wi-Fi hotspots. The vulnerability is especially concerning in enterprise environments where sensitive corporate data, user credentials, and authentication information are routinely transmitted through these systems.
Security professionals should note that this vulnerability aligns with several techniques documented in the MITRE ATT&CK framework, particularly those related to credential access and network sniffing. The flaw enables adversaries to perform session hijacking attacks and potentially escalate privileges through stolen authentication tokens. Organizations should immediately implement mitigations including proper HSTS header configuration, enforcement of HTTPS-only connections, and regular security assessments of their web application infrastructure. The vulnerability underscores the critical importance of maintaining robust transport layer security mechanisms and demonstrates how seemingly minor configuration oversights can create significant security risks in enterprise authentication systems.