CVE-2018-2021 in QRadar SIEM
Summary
by MITRE
IBM QRadar SIEM 7.2 and 7.3 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: 155345.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/30/2023
IBM QRadar SIEM version 7.2 and 7.3 contains a cross-site scripting vulnerability that represents a critical security weakness in the web-based user interface. This vulnerability falls under the CWE-79 category of Cross-Site Scripting and can be exploited by malicious actors to inject arbitrary JavaScript code into the application's web interface. The flaw exists due to insufficient input validation and output encoding mechanisms within the web application's processing pipeline, allowing attackers to craft malicious payloads that execute within the context of authenticated user sessions.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when untrusted data is improperly handled and rendered back to users without proper sanitization. Attackers can leverage this weakness by submitting malicious scripts through input fields or parameters that are then reflected in the web interface. When legitimate users view the affected pages, the injected JavaScript code executes in their browser context, potentially enabling session hijacking attacks. This vulnerability specifically targets the web UI components of QRadar SIEM, which means that any user with access to the web interface could be compromised, including administrators with elevated privileges.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script execution, as it can lead to complete credential compromise within trusted sessions. When attackers successfully inject malicious scripts, they can capture user credentials, session tokens, or other sensitive information transmitted between the browser and the QRadar server. This represents a significant threat to the security posture of organizations relying on QRadar for security information and event management, as the vulnerability enables persistent access to critical security monitoring capabilities. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that QRadar SIEM is designed to be the central hub for security monitoring and incident response activities.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including applying the vendor-provided security patches and updates released for this vulnerability. Network segmentation and monitoring of web traffic can help detect potential exploitation attempts. Access controls should be strengthened to limit exposure, and users should be educated about the risks of clicking suspicious links or visiting untrusted websites. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1566 for initial access through social engineering and T1071 for application layer protocol usage. Additionally, implementing Content Security Policy headers and robust input validation measures can provide additional defense in depth against similar cross-site scripting vulnerabilities in web applications.