CVE-2019-4719 in IBM
Summary
by MITRE
IBM MQ and IBM MQ Appliance 7.1, 7.5, 8.0, 9.0 LTS, 9.1 LTS, and 9.1 CD could allow a local attacker to obtain sensitive information by inclusion of sensitive data within runmqras data.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/16/2024
IBM MQ and IBM MQ Appliance versions 7.1, 7.5, 8.0, 9.0 LTS, 9.1 LTS, and 9.1 CD contain a vulnerability that allows local attackers to extract sensitive information through the runmqras command. This flaw specifically relates to how the runmqras utility handles data inclusion, potentially exposing confidential information that should remain protected. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and data sanitization within the utility's processing mechanisms, creating an information disclosure risk that can be exploited by adversaries with local system access. The runmqras command is typically used for generating security artifacts and managing cryptographic operations within the IBM MQ environment, making this vulnerability particularly concerning for organizations relying on proper security boundaries. This issue aligns with CWE-200, which addresses the exposure of sensitive information, and represents a classic case of information leakage through improper data handling. The attack vector requires local system access, meaning that an attacker must already have access to the target system to exploit this vulnerability, but once achieved, the information disclosure can be significant. Organizations utilizing IBM MQ in environments where local access controls may be compromised face heightened risk due to this vulnerability. The impact extends beyond simple data exposure as the leaked information could include cryptographic keys, authentication credentials, or other sensitive system parameters that could facilitate further attacks. This vulnerability has been classified under the ATT&CK framework as part of the Credential Access tactic, specifically relating to the T1552 technique for Unsecured Credentials. The flaw demonstrates a lack of proper security by design principles in the IBM MQ implementation, where sensitive data handling practices were not adequately enforced during the development of the runmqras utility. IBM has addressed this vulnerability through targeted patches and updates that improve input validation and data sanitization within the affected components, requiring organizations to apply these updates promptly to maintain system integrity. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper access controls and the principle of least privilege, as local access to systems containing sensitive data creates potential attack surfaces that may not be immediately apparent. Security practitioners should implement additional monitoring and access controls to detect unauthorized attempts to invoke the runmqras command or access sensitive system information. Organizations should conduct thorough security assessments to identify potential local access points and ensure that appropriate controls are in place to prevent exploitation of this and similar information disclosure vulnerabilities. The remediation process requires careful testing to ensure that security updates do not disrupt existing MQ operations while effectively addressing the information disclosure risk. Proper system hardening practices, including regular patch management and access control reviews, are essential for mitigating the impact of this vulnerability and similar security flaws in enterprise messaging systems.