CVE-2017-1665 in Tivoli Key Lifecycle Manager
Summary
by MITRE
IBM Tivoli Key Lifecycle Manager 2.5, 2.6, and 2.7 uses weaker than expected cryptographic algorithms that could allow an attacker to decrypt highly sensitive information. IBM X-Force ID: 133559.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/28/2021
IBM Tivoli Key Lifecycle Manager versions 2.5, 2.6, and 2.7 contain a significant cryptographic vulnerability that undermines the security of sensitive data protection mechanisms. This vulnerability stems from the use of weaker cryptographic algorithms than expected, creating a substantial risk for organizations relying on the system for key management and data encryption. The flaw specifically affects the cryptographic strength implemented within the key lifecycle management processes, potentially allowing unauthorized parties to compromise the confidentiality of highly sensitive information.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the use of insufficiently strong encryption algorithms that fail to meet contemporary security standards for cryptographic protection. This weakness creates opportunities for attackers to perform cryptographic attacks such as brute force or pattern analysis that could successfully decrypt sensitive data without proper authorization. The vulnerability represents a direct violation of cryptographic best practices and security requirements established in industry standards including those referenced in the Common Weakness Enumeration CWE-327, which specifically addresses the use of weak cryptographic algorithms.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data compromise, affecting the overall security posture of organizations using IBM Tivoli Key Lifecycle Manager. Attackers exploiting this weakness could potentially gain access to encryption keys, certificates, and other cryptographic materials that would enable them to decrypt sensitive information stored within the system. This represents a critical risk for enterprises handling confidential data, financial records, personal information, or other assets requiring strong cryptographic protection. The vulnerability's impact is particularly severe given that key lifecycle management systems are designed to protect the most sensitive cryptographic assets within an organization's security infrastructure.
Organizations should prioritize immediate remediation through the application of available security patches from IBM, as the vulnerability represents a persistent risk that could be exploited by threat actors with sufficient technical capability. The mitigation strategy should include comprehensive assessment of all systems using affected versions, implementation of additional security controls to compensate for the cryptographic weakness, and monitoring for potential exploitation attempts. Security teams should also consider implementing network segmentation and access controls to limit potential attack surfaces, while ensuring that any temporary compensating controls align with established security frameworks such as those referenced in the MITRE ATT&CK framework for defensive measures against cryptographic attacks. Organizations must also evaluate their key management practices and consider upgrading to supported versions that implement stronger cryptographic algorithms meeting current industry standards.