CVE-2018-1974 in WebSphere
Summary
by MITRE
IBM WebSphere 8.0.0.0 through 9.1.1 could allow an authenticated attacker to escalate their privileges when using multiplexed channels. IBM X-Force ID: 153915.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/31/2023
IBM WebSphere Application Server versions 8.0.0.0 through 9.1.1 contain a privilege escalation vulnerability that affects authenticated users leveraging multiplexed channels. This vulnerability stems from insufficient authorization checks within the channel multiplexing functionality, allowing attackers to bypass intended access controls and elevate their privileges within the application server environment. The flaw specifically manifests when multiple channels are established within a single connection, creating potential pathways for unauthorized privilege elevation through manipulated channel communications.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the improper handling of channel identifiers and authorization contexts during multiplexed operations. When multiple logical channels operate over a single physical connection, the system fails to properly validate that each channel operation adheres to the original authentication context and authorization boundaries. This creates a scenario where an attacker with valid credentials for one channel can potentially manipulate channel-specific requests to access resources or perform operations typically restricted to higher privilege levels. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-284 which addresses improper access control, specifically focusing on insufficient authorization checks in multiplexed environments.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability presents significant risk to organizations relying on IBM WebSphere for critical business applications. An authenticated attacker who can establish multiplexed channels within the application server environment could potentially escalate privileges to perform administrative operations, access sensitive data, or compromise the integrity of the application server. The attack vector requires initial authentication, making it less likely to be exploited remotely, but once inside the system, the privilege escalation capability could lead to complete system compromise. This vulnerability particularly affects environments where multiple applications or services operate within the same WebSphere instance and utilize multiplexed communication patterns.
The mitigation strategies for this vulnerability involve applying the official IBM security patches and fixes released for the affected WebSphere versions. Organizations should also implement network segmentation and access control measures to limit the potential impact of such attacks. Additionally, monitoring for unusual channel multiplexing activities and implementing proper audit logging can help detect exploitation attempts. Security practitioners should consider implementing the principle of least privilege and regularly reviewing channel configurations to minimize the attack surface. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper authorization validation in complex communication environments and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1078 which covers valid accounts and privilege escalation through legitimate system access. Organizations should also review their WebSphere configurations to ensure that multiplexed channel usage is properly restricted and monitored to prevent unauthorized privilege escalation scenarios.