CVE-2017-1284 in WebSphere MQ
Summary
by MITRE
IBM WebSphere MQ 9.0.1 and 9.0.2 could allow a local user with ability to run or enable trace, to obtain sensitive information from WebSphere Application Server traces including user credentials. IBM X-Force ID: 125145.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/31/2020
IBM WebSphere MQ versions 9.0.1 and 9.0.2 contain a critical information disclosure vulnerability that affects local users with trace execution privileges. This vulnerability stems from inadequate sanitization of trace output data, allowing malicious actors to extract sensitive credentials and authentication information from application server traces. The flaw specifically impacts environments where trace functionality is enabled or can be activated by local users, creating a persistent security risk that could be exploited by both insider threats and attackers who gain local access to affected systems.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability resides in the trace processing mechanisms within WebSphere MQ's application server components. When trace operations are enabled, the system logs detailed operational information including authentication tokens, session identifiers, and user credentials without proper sanitization. This creates a scenario where sensitive data remains accessible in trace files that may not be adequately protected or secured. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-200, which addresses the exposure of sensitive information, and represents a classic case of insufficient output sanitization in security-critical systems. Attackers can leverage this weakness by accessing trace files directly or by exploiting the trace functionality to generate new logs containing the target information.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple credential theft, as it provides attackers with persistent access to authentication tokens and session data that can be used for privilege escalation and lateral movement within affected networks. Local users who can enable trace functionality gain the ability to systematically extract user credentials and other sensitive information from the application server environment. This creates a significant risk for organizations that maintain trace capabilities for legitimate debugging purposes, as these features can become attack vectors when not properly secured. The vulnerability particularly affects enterprise environments where WebSphere MQ serves as a messaging backbone and where multiple applications rely on secure authentication mechanisms.
Organizations should immediately implement comprehensive trace management policies that restrict trace functionality to authorized personnel only and ensure that trace files are properly secured and monitored. System administrators must disable trace capabilities in production environments unless absolutely necessary, and when enabled, implement strict access controls and file permissions. The remediation strategy should include immediate patching of affected WebSphere MQ versions to address the root cause of the vulnerability. Additionally, security teams should conduct regular audits of trace file locations and implement automated monitoring solutions to detect unauthorized trace access attempts. This vulnerability demonstrates the importance of applying the principle of least privilege and proper information flow control in enterprise messaging systems, as outlined in the mitre attack framework's privilege escalation techniques and information gathering phases.