CVE-2016-6072 in Maximo Asset Management
Summary
by MITRE
IBM Maximo Asset Management is vulnerable to cross-site scripting. This vulnerability allows users to embed arbitrary JavaScript code in the Web UI thus altering the intended functionality potentially leading to credentials disclosure within a trusted session.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/09/2020
IBM Maximo Asset Management version 7.5.0.0 through 7.5.0.11 and 7.6.0.0 through 7.6.0.4 contains a cross-site scripting vulnerability that stems from insufficient input validation and output encoding within the web user interface components. The flaw exists in the application's handling of user-supplied data that is subsequently rendered back to the browser without proper sanitization mechanisms. This vulnerability falls under CWE-79 which specifically addresses cross-site scripting flaws where web applications fail to adequately validate or encode user input before incorporating it into dynamic web content. Attackers can exploit this weakness by injecting malicious javascript code through various input fields or parameters within the Maximo interface, which then executes in the context of a victim's browser session. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates within a trusted session environment where authenticated users interact with the application, potentially enabling attackers to harvest session cookies, authentication tokens, or other sensitive information that could lead to unauthorized access to the Maximo system.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft as it creates opportunities for attackers to perform session hijacking attacks and establish persistent access to the asset management platform. When exploited successfully, the XSS vulnerability allows threat actors to execute arbitrary code within the browser of authenticated users, potentially enabling them to access sensitive asset data, modify records, or even escalate privileges within the Maximo environment. The attack surface is broad since Maximo serves as a comprehensive enterprise asset management solution where users routinely perform critical business operations including asset tracking, maintenance scheduling, and financial reporting. According to ATT&CK framework category T1059.007, adversaries can leverage this vulnerability to execute code through web browsers, while T1531 focuses on credential access through web application vulnerabilities. The risk is amplified because Maximo typically operates within enterprise environments where users have elevated privileges and access to sensitive business-critical data.
Organizations should implement multiple layers of defense to mitigate this vulnerability effectively. The primary remediation involves applying the official IBM security patches and updates that address the specific XSS implementation flaws within the Maximo web interface. Additionally, implementing proper input validation and output encoding mechanisms at the application level can prevent malicious code injection attempts. Organizations should also consider deploying web application firewalls that can detect and block suspicious javascript payloads attempting to exploit this vulnerability. Network segmentation and privilege separation can limit the potential impact if an attacker successfully exploits this vulnerability. The implementation of Content Security Policy headers can provide an additional defense-in-depth mechanism to prevent execution of unauthorized javascript code within the Maximo environment. Regular security assessments and penetration testing should be conducted to verify the effectiveness of these mitigations and identify any potential new attack vectors that may emerge. Organizations should also establish robust monitoring procedures to detect anomalous user behavior patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts or successful compromise of the Maximo asset management system.