CVE-2017-1673 in Tivoli Key Lifecycle Manager
Summary
by MITRE
IBM Tivoli Key Lifecycle Manager 2.5, 2.6, and 2.7 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: 133640.
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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 cross-site scripting vulnerability that represents a critical security flaw in the web-based user interface. This vulnerability falls under CWE-79 which specifically addresses cross-site scripting attacks where malicious scripts can be injected into web applications. The flaw exists in the web user interface components that fail to properly sanitize user input before rendering it back to the browser, creating an opportunity for attackers to execute arbitrary JavaScript code within the context of a victim's session. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and output encoding mechanisms within the application's web interface, allowing attackers to craft malicious payloads that can be executed when legitimate users view affected pages.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script execution to potentially compromise user sessions and access credentials within trusted environments. When a malicious user successfully injects JavaScript code through the vulnerable interface, the script executes with the privileges of the authenticated user, effectively enabling session hijacking attacks. This presents a significant risk in enterprise environments where the key lifecycle manager handles sensitive cryptographic keys and authentication credentials. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to steal session cookies, capture login credentials, or perform unauthorized actions within the application. The threat is particularly concerning because it operates within the trusted session context, making detection more difficult and increasing the potential for persistent access to sensitive key management systems.
The vulnerability aligns with several ATT&CK techniques including T1566 for credential access through social engineering and T1059 for execution of malicious code through web interfaces. Organizations using IBM Tivoli Key Lifecycle Manager should implement immediate mitigations including input validation and output encoding controls to prevent script injection attacks. The recommended remediation involves applying the vendor-provided security patches and updates that address the specific XSS vulnerabilities in the web interface components. Additionally, implementing proper content security policies, input sanitization measures, and regular security testing can help prevent similar vulnerabilities from emerging in the future. Organizations should also consider network segmentation and monitoring solutions to detect anomalous behavior that might indicate exploitation attempts, particularly focusing on unusual JavaScript execution patterns within trusted environments where such activities should not normally occur.