CVE-2018-1697 in Maximo Asset Management
Summary
by MITRE
IBM Maximo Asset Management 7.6 could allow an authenticated user to enumerate usernames using a specially crafted HTTP request. IBM X-Force ID: 145966.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/13/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-1697 affects IBM Maximo Asset Management version 7.6, representing a significant security flaw that undermines the system's authentication mechanisms. This issue manifests through improper error handling during user authentication processes, where the application fails to properly sanitize input from HTTP requests. The vulnerability specifically targets the username enumeration functionality, allowing authenticated users to exploit a design flaw that reveals sensitive information about valid user accounts within the system.
This technical weakness stems from the application's response to malformed authentication requests, where the system provides distinguishable error messages or behavioral differences when processing valid versus invalid usernames. The flaw operates at the application layer, specifically within the authentication module, where the system's inability to consistently handle malformed input creates information disclosure opportunities. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability by crafting specific HTTP requests that trigger different responses based on whether a username exists in the system, effectively enabling them to systematically enumerate valid user accounts without requiring additional credentials.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it provides attackers with a foundation for more sophisticated attacks including credential stuffing, brute force attempts, and social engineering campaigns. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-200, which addresses information exposure through improper error handling, and represents a classic example of how seemingly minor implementation flaws can create substantial security risks. From an attacker perspective, this vulnerability falls under ATT&CK technique T1078.004, which covers valid accounts obtained through credential reuse, as it provides the initial reconnaissance necessary for successful account compromise.
Organizations utilizing IBM Maximo Asset Management 7.6 face significant risk from this vulnerability, particularly in environments where user enumeration could lead to targeted attacks against legitimate accounts. The flaw's exploitation requires only authenticated access to the system, making it particularly dangerous in environments where multiple users maintain valid accounts. System administrators should consider this vulnerability as part of a broader security assessment, as it may indicate additional weaknesses in the application's input validation and error handling mechanisms. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of implementing consistent error handling practices and proper input sanitization to prevent information disclosure attacks.
Mitigation strategies should include implementing consistent error responses regardless of whether usernames exist in the system, applying the latest security patches from IBM, and configuring the application to limit authentication attempts from individual users. Organizations should also consider implementing additional monitoring for unusual authentication patterns and ensure that all user accounts follow strong password policies. The vulnerability underscores the necessity of comprehensive security testing including penetration testing and code reviews to identify similar flaws in authentication mechanisms. Regular security updates and adherence to security best practices remain essential for protecting against such information disclosure vulnerabilities that can serve as entry points for more serious attacks.