CVE-2017-1363 in Team Concert
Summary
by MITRE
IBM Team Concert (RTC) 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. IBM X-Force ID: 126856.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/20/2021
IBM Team Concert version 6.0.4 and earlier contains a cross-site scripting vulnerability that enables attackers to inject malicious JavaScript code into the web user interface. This flaw exists in the application's input validation mechanisms, specifically within the web-based collaboration features that process user-supplied data without proper sanitization. The vulnerability stems from insufficient filtering of user inputs that are subsequently rendered in web pages, creating an opportunity for attackers to execute arbitrary scripts in the context of a victim's browser session. The issue is particularly concerning because RTC operates within enterprise environments where users trust the application and may perform sensitive operations such as accessing project data, managing work items, and handling confidential information.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability allows an attacker to craft malicious payloads that exploit the lack of input sanitization in the web interface. When a victim visits a page containing the malicious script or when the script is embedded in a work item description, comment, or other user-editable content, the JavaScript code executes in the victim's browser with the privileges of the authenticated user. This cross-site scripting vulnerability falls under the CWE-79 category of Cross-Site Scripting, which is classified as a critical weakness in web applications. The attack vector typically involves social engineering techniques where users are tricked into clicking on malicious links or viewing compromised content within the RTC environment. The vulnerability can be exploited through various input points including work item fields, comments, and project descriptions where user input is not properly escaped or validated.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script execution as it can lead to complete session hijacking and credential theft within trusted environments. When an authenticated user interacts with compromised content, the malicious JavaScript can access session cookies, form data, and other sensitive information that the user's browser has access to. This creates a significant risk for enterprise environments where RTC is used for collaborative development and project management, as attackers can potentially access confidential project information, manipulate work items, and gain unauthorized access to other systems that the authenticated user might have access to. The vulnerability can be particularly dangerous in environments where RTC integrates with other enterprise systems, as it may serve as a stepping stone for further attacks. According to the ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1059.007 for script execution and T1531 for credential access through session hijacking.
Organizations should implement multiple layers of mitigation to address this vulnerability in IBM Team Concert deployments. The immediate solution involves applying the vendor-provided security patches or updates that contain proper input validation and output encoding mechanisms. Additionally, implementing proper content security policies can help prevent execution of unauthorized scripts even if the vulnerability exists. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls that can detect and block malicious script injection attempts. Regular security testing and code reviews should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other applications within the enterprise. Network segmentation and least privilege access controls can help limit the potential impact if an attacker successfully exploits this vulnerability. The mitigation strategy should also include user education about the risks of clicking on suspicious links or content within collaborative environments, as social engineering remains a primary attack vector for exploiting such vulnerabilities.