CVE-2018-1874 in API Connect
Summary
by MITRE
IBM API Connect 5.0.0.0 through 5.0.8.5 could display highly sensitive information to an attacker with physical access to the system. IBM X-Force ID: 151636.
If you want to get the best quality for vulnerability data then you always have to consider VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/21/2023
IBM API Connect versions 5.0.0.0 through 5.0.8.5 contain a critical security vulnerability that allows unauthorized disclosure of sensitive information when an attacker gains physical access to the system. This vulnerability stems from inadequate protection mechanisms that fail to properly secure sensitive data stored on the device. The flaw specifically affects the system's handling of sensitive information during system operations and physical access scenarios. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-200, which addresses "Information Exposure," and represents a significant risk to organizations relying on IBM API Connect for their API management infrastructure. The attack vector involves physical access to the system where an attacker can directly interact with the device and potentially extract confidential data through various means including direct memory access or exploitation of unsecured storage components. This weakness creates a substantial risk for organizations as it allows for the exposure of sensitive configuration data, authentication credentials, API keys, and other critical system information that could be leveraged for further attacks or unauthorized access to connected systems.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure and creates a comprehensive security risk for enterprise environments. Organizations using affected IBM API Connect versions face potential data breaches, compliance violations, and increased attack surface due to the exposure of sensitive system information. The vulnerability's presence in multiple patch levels within the 5.0.8.5 release cycle indicates a persistent flaw in the system's security architecture that requires immediate attention. From an attack perspective, this vulnerability maps to ATT&CK technique T1083, "File and Directory Discovery," and T1005, "Data from Local System," as attackers can exploit the physical access scenario to gather system information. The exposure of sensitive data through this vulnerability could enable attackers to conduct more sophisticated attacks including privilege escalation, lateral movement, or targeted attacks against other systems within the network infrastructure. The risk is particularly elevated in environments where physical security controls are inadequate or where unauthorized personnel have access to system hardware.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations to address this vulnerability including updating to the latest supported versions of IBM API Connect where the issue has been resolved. The recommended approach involves applying the vendor-provided security patches and updates that address the information disclosure flaw in the system's physical access protection mechanisms. System administrators should also review and strengthen physical security controls to prevent unauthorized access to system hardware, implementing measures such as secure device enclosures, access controls, and monitoring systems. Additional mitigations include implementing proper data sanitization procedures, ensuring sensitive information is properly encrypted both at rest and in transit, and conducting regular security assessments to identify potential exposure points. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of considering physical security aspects in overall security architecture and highlights the need for comprehensive security controls that address both digital and physical access threats. Organizations should also consider implementing network segmentation and access controls to limit the potential impact of physical access compromises and establish clear procedures for handling system maintenance and access to sensitive environments.