CVE-2017-1544 in Sterling B2B Integrator Standard Edition
Summary
by MITRE
IBM Sterling B2B Integrator Standard Edition (IBM Sterling File Gateway 2.2.0 through 2.2.6) caches usernames and passwords in browsers that could be used by a local attacker to obtain sensitive information. IBM X-Force ID: 130812.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/25/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-1544 affects IBM Sterling B2B Integrator Standard Edition and IBM Sterling File Gateway versions 2.2.0 through 2.2.6, representing a critical security flaw in how authentication credentials are handled within web browser environments. This issue stems from the improper caching of user credentials by the application's web interface, creating an exploitable condition that allows local attackers to access sensitive authentication information stored in browser cache mechanisms. The vulnerability specifically targets the authentication flow where user credentials are temporarily stored in browser cache systems, potentially exposing them to unauthorized access through local system compromise.
The technical implementation of this flaw involves the application's web interface storing username and password combinations in browser cache storage mechanisms without proper security controls or encryption. When users authenticate to the IBM Sterling B2B Integrator interface, their credentials are cached in the browser's temporary storage areas, including memory caches, local storage, and session storage. This caching behavior occurs even when users have explicitly configured their browsers to clear cache data or when they navigate away from the application interface. The flaw is particularly concerning because it operates at the client-side web application level, where attackers can exploit local system access to retrieve cached credentials that would otherwise be protected by proper authentication mechanisms.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability creates significant risk for organizations using IBM Sterling B2B Integrator, as it directly enables credential theft and potential unauthorized access to business-to-business integration systems. Local attackers with access to the victim machine can retrieve cached credentials through various methods including direct file system access, memory dumping techniques, or by leveraging browser-based exploitation tools. The exposure of these credentials can lead to complete compromise of the integration platform, potentially allowing attackers to access sensitive business data, manipulate file transfers, and gain unauthorized access to downstream systems. This vulnerability particularly affects organizations with multiple users accessing the platform, as each cached credential represents a potential entry point for attackers.
The vulnerability aligns with CWE-522, which addresses Insufficiently Protected Credentials, and represents a classic example of insecure credential storage practices. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to T1078 - Valid Accounts and T1550 - Use of Privileged Accounts, as it enables adversaries to obtain legitimate credentials that can be used for further system compromise. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including disabling browser caching for authentication pages, implementing proper cache control headers, and ensuring that users are educated about the risks of credential caching. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing multi-factor authentication mechanisms and regular credential rotation policies to reduce the impact of such vulnerabilities. The remediation approach should include updating to patched versions of IBM Sterling B2B Integrator, configuring web server settings to prevent credential caching, and implementing proper access controls for local system users to limit potential attack vectors.