CVE-2017-1366 in Security Identity Governance Virtual Appliance
Summary
by MITRE
IBM Security Identity Governance Virtual Appliance 5.2 through 5.2.3.2 uses weaker than expected cryptographic algorithms that could allow an attacker to decrypt highly sensitive information. IBM X-Force ID: 126859.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/01/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-1366 affects IBM Security Identity Governance Virtual Appliance versions 5.2 through 5.2.3.2, representing a critical weakness in the cryptographic implementation that compromises the confidentiality of sensitive data. This vulnerability falls under the broader category of weak cryptographic algorithms as classified by CWE-327, which specifically addresses the use of insecure cryptographic algorithms that can be easily broken or bypassed by adversaries. The affected appliance employs cryptographic mechanisms that do not meet modern security standards, creating an exploitable weakness in the system's data protection capabilities.
The technical flaw manifests in the appliance's implementation of cryptographic protocols where it utilizes algorithms that are either deprecated, insufficiently strong, or improperly configured. This weakness allows attackers to potentially decrypt sensitive information that should remain protected through robust encryption. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it affects identity governance systems which typically handle highly sensitive personal and organizational data including user credentials, access permissions, and identity-related information. The cryptographic weakness creates a pathway for attackers to gain unauthorized access to confidential data that would normally be protected by strong encryption mechanisms.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability poses significant risks to organizations relying on the IBM Security Identity Governance Virtual Appliance for managing identity access and authentication. Attackers who exploit this weakness could potentially access user credentials, identity information, and other sensitive data that the system is designed to protect. The impact extends beyond simple data theft to potential identity theft, unauthorized system access, and broader security breaches that could compromise entire identity management ecosystems. The vulnerability affects the fundamental security posture of organizations that depend on this appliance for their identity governance operations, creating a potential attack vector that could lead to cascading security failures.
Organizations should immediately implement mitigations including updating to the latest supported versions of the IBM Security Identity Governance Virtual Appliance where the cryptographic weaknesses have been addressed. The recommended approach involves applying the vendor-provided security patches and updates that correct the cryptographic implementation issues. Additionally, organizations should conduct thorough security assessments to identify any data that may have been compromised through this vulnerability. The remediation process should include verifying that all cryptographic algorithms used within the appliance meet current security standards and that proper key management practices are implemented. Organizations should also consider implementing additional monitoring and detection measures to identify any potential exploitation attempts. This vulnerability highlights the importance of maintaining up-to-date security implementations and proper cryptographic practices as outlined in industry standards such as those referenced in the ATT&CK framework under credential access and defense evasion techniques that may leverage weak cryptographic implementations.