CVE-2019-4366 in Cognos Analytics
Summary
by MITRE
IBM Cognos Analytics 11.0 and 11.1 is susceptible to an information disclosure vulnerability where an attacker could gain access to cached browser data. IBM X-Force ID: 161748.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/06/2020
IBM Cognos Analytics versions 11.0 and 11.1 contain a critical information disclosure vulnerability that allows attackers to access cached browser data through improper handling of session management and data caching mechanisms. This vulnerability stems from insufficient validation of cached content within the web application's browser-side storage, creating potential exposure of sensitive analytical data and user session information. The flaw exists in the application's caching subsystem where temporary data storage does not properly isolate or secure information between different user sessions or access levels.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the application's failure to properly invalidate or sanitize cached browser resources when transitioning between authenticated sessions or when accessing different analytical reports and dashboards. Attackers can exploit this weakness by leveraging browser caching mechanisms to retrieve previously accessed data that should not be available to the current user context. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-200, Information Exposure, and specifically relates to CWE-522, Insufficiently Protected Credentials, when sensitive session data is exposed through cache mechanisms.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data exposure, as cached browser data may contain sensitive business intelligence, financial reports, user access patterns, and analytical dashboards that could provide attackers with valuable insights into organizational operations and strategic planning. The vulnerability creates a persistent risk where cached data remains accessible even after user logout or session termination, potentially enabling unauthorized access to confidential information over extended periods. This exposure affects not only individual user privacy but also corporate data governance and compliance requirements.
Organizations using IBM Cognos Analytics 11.0 and 11.1 should implement immediate mitigations including disabling browser caching for sensitive analytical content, implementing proper cache invalidation protocols, and configuring secure session management policies. The recommended approach includes deploying Content Security Policy headers to prevent unauthorized cache access, establishing regular cache clearing procedures, and implementing application-level controls to ensure that cached data is properly isolated between user sessions. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing network-level controls and monitoring to detect potential exploitation attempts, as outlined in the ATT&CK framework's T1566 technique for credential access through web application vulnerabilities. IBM has released patches and updates addressing this vulnerability, which should be deployed immediately to prevent exploitation and maintain compliance with industry standards including ISO 27001 and NIST cybersecurity frameworks.