CVE-2019-4681 in Tivoli Netcool Impact
Summary
by MITRE
IBM Tivoli Netcool Impact 7.1.0.0 through 7.1.0.17 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: 171734.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/12/2025
IBM Tivoli Netcool Impact version 7.1.0.0 through 7.1.0.17 contains a cross-site scripting vulnerability that represents a critical security flaw in the web-based user interface. This vulnerability falls under the CWE-79 category of Cross-Site Scripting, which occurs when an application incorporates untrusted data into web pages without proper validation or sanitization. The flaw specifically affects the web UI component where user input is not adequately filtered, allowing malicious actors to inject JavaScript code that executes within the context of other users' sessions. The vulnerability enables attackers to manipulate the application's intended functionality by embedding malicious scripts that can capture user credentials, hijack sessions, or perform unauthorized actions on behalf of legitimate users.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script execution as it creates a persistent threat vector within trusted network environments where users expect secure session management. When exploited, the XSS vulnerability allows attackers to execute JavaScript code in the victim's browser, potentially leading to credential disclosure during trusted sessions. This risk is particularly severe in enterprise monitoring environments where Netcool Impact systems handle sensitive operational data and authentication credentials. The vulnerability can be exploited through various attack vectors including crafted input fields, URL parameters, or even through infected web pages that interact with the impacted system. Attackers can leverage this flaw to establish persistent access to the system, potentially compromising the entire monitoring infrastructure and gaining visibility into critical network operations.
The exploitation of this vulnerability aligns with several ATT&CK framework techniques including T1059.007 for Command and Scripting Interpreter and T1566 for Phishing, as attackers can craft malicious payloads that appear legitimate within the trusted application environment. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that IBM Tivoli Netcool Impact systems are typically deployed in enterprise environments where they serve as critical monitoring and incident management platforms. Organizations using these systems face significant risk of unauthorized access and data exfiltration, especially when users interact with potentially malicious web content or when attackers successfully execute social engineering campaigns targeting system administrators. The vulnerability's impact is amplified by the fact that it affects multiple versions within the 7.1.0.0 through 7.1.0.17 range, indicating a widespread exposure across various deployments.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should include immediate implementation of input validation and output encoding controls within the web UI components. Organizations should deploy web application firewalls to filter malicious payloads and implement proper content security policies to prevent script execution. Regular security updates and patches from IBM should be applied promptly to address the vulnerability, while also implementing network segmentation to limit the potential impact of successful exploitation. Additional defensive measures include user education on recognizing phishing attempts, implementing multi-factor authentication for system access, and conducting regular security assessments to identify similar vulnerabilities within the broader application ecosystem. The remediation process should also involve comprehensive testing of input validation mechanisms and monitoring for suspicious activities that may indicate exploitation attempts.