CVE-2019-4008 in API Connect
Summary
by MITRE
API Connect V2018.1 through 2018.4.1.1 is impacted by access token leak. Authorization tokens in some URLs can result in the tokens being written to log files. IBM X-Force ID: 155626.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/06/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2019-4008 affects IBM API Connect versions ranging from V2018.1 through 2018.4.1.1, representing a critical security flaw that exposes authorization tokens through improper logging mechanisms. This issue stems from the software's handling of access tokens within URL parameters, where sensitive authentication credentials are inadvertently captured and persisted in log files during system operations. The flaw creates a significant risk for organizations relying on API Connect for their enterprise API management needs, as it undermines the fundamental security principle of credential protection and access control.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the application's logging subsystem failing to properly sanitize URL parameters containing authorization tokens before writing them to log files. When API requests containing access tokens are processed through the system, these tokens become part of the URL structure and are subsequently logged without adequate filtering or redaction mechanisms. This behavior directly violates security best practices for handling sensitive information and creates persistent exposure points within the system's audit trails. The vulnerability manifests when the software logs HTTP requests that contain tokens in query parameters, typically in the format of ?access_token=xxxxx, where the entire parameter is captured and stored in plaintext within log files.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability creates multiple attack vectors that can be exploited by malicious actors with access to system logs or those who can intercept API traffic. The leaked access tokens can be used to impersonate legitimate users or applications, potentially leading to unauthorized access to protected resources, data breaches, and privilege escalation attacks. The exposure extends beyond immediate unauthorized access as these tokens may remain valid for extended periods, creating long-term security risks. Security teams face significant challenges in monitoring and detecting such incidents, as the tokens appear in regular system logs that are often retained for compliance and troubleshooting purposes, making the vulnerability particularly dangerous in regulated environments where log retention policies are strict.
The vulnerability aligns with CWE-532, which describes "Information Exposure Through Log Files," and represents a classic example of improper information handling in application logging. It also maps to ATT&CK technique T1070.001, "Indicator Removal on Host: Clear Windows Event Logs," as the presence of sensitive tokens in logs creates additional exposure points that attackers can leverage for persistence and lateral movement. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including configuring the logging subsystem to filter out URL parameters containing authorization tokens, implementing proper log sanitization procedures, and establishing monitoring rules to detect and alert on suspicious log entries containing token patterns. Additionally, system administrators should review and rotate all affected access tokens, implement regular log file audits, and consider deploying web application firewalls to prevent token leakage at the network level. The remediation process should also include updating to patched versions of IBM API Connect where available and implementing comprehensive security training for development teams on secure coding practices and proper handling of sensitive information in system outputs.