CVE-2016-6097 in Tivoli Key Lifecycle Manager
Summary
by MITRE
IBM Tivoli Key Lifecycle Manager 2.0.1, 2.5, and 2.6 allows web pages to be stored locally which can be read by another user on the system.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/07/2017
IBM Tivoli Key Lifecycle Manager version 2.0.1, 2.5, and 2.6 contains a critical security flaw that enables unauthorized local file access through web page storage mechanisms. This vulnerability stems from insufficient access controls and improper file handling within the application's web interface components, allowing malicious actors to store web content locally on the system. The flaw represents a classic case of insecure temporary file storage and inadequate privilege separation between user sessions. When users interact with the web interface, the application creates local storage elements that should be isolated to individual user contexts but instead remain accessible to other system users. This issue directly maps to CWE-276, which addresses improper privilege management and inadequate file permissions. The vulnerability creates a path for privilege escalation and information disclosure attacks where one user can potentially read another user's stored web content, compromising the confidentiality of sensitive key management data. This weakness is particularly concerning in enterprise environments where multiple users share the same system resources and where key lifecycle management involves handling cryptographic keys, certificates, and other security-sensitive materials.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure to encompass potential compromise of the entire key management infrastructure. Attackers could exploit this flaw to access stored web pages containing sensitive configuration data, key material, or session information that might reveal patterns in key usage or system administration practices. The vulnerability creates a persistent threat vector that remains active as long as the affected application versions are deployed, making it particularly dangerous in long-running enterprise environments. From an attack perspective, this issue aligns with ATT&CK technique T1074.001, which covers data staging through local data staging mechanisms. The flaw essentially provides attackers with a method to establish a foothold for further exploitation, potentially leading to complete system compromise when combined with other vulnerabilities or attack vectors. The affected versions suggest this was a widespread issue affecting multiple release lines, indicating a fundamental design flaw rather than a one-time coding error.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patching of all affected IBM Tivoli Key Lifecycle Manager installations to the latest available versions that address the insecure file storage mechanisms. Organizations should implement strict file permission controls and ensure that all web application components properly isolate user data through proper access control mechanisms. System administrators must conduct thorough vulnerability assessments to identify any locally stored web content that may have been compromised and implement monitoring for unauthorized file access patterns. The remediation process should include reviewing and strengthening the application's temporary file handling procedures to ensure that user-specific web content is properly isolated and accessible only to the intended user context. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing network segmentation and access controls to limit the potential impact of such vulnerabilities. Security monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual file access patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts, and regular security audits should verify that proper isolation mechanisms are in place. The vulnerability underscores the importance of following secure coding practices and proper privilege management as outlined in industry standards such as the OWASP Secure Coding Practices and NIST SP 800-53 security controls for access control and data protection.