CVE-2020-4298 in InfoSphere Information Server
Summary
by MITRE
IBM InfoSphere Information Server 11.3, 11.5, and 11.7 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: 176475.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/18/2020
IBM InfoSphere Information Server versions 11.3, 11.5, and 11.7 contain a cross-site scripting vulnerability that represents a critical security flaw in the web-based user interface. This vulnerability falls under CWE-79 which specifically addresses cross-site scripting attacks where malicious scripts are injected into web applications. The flaw enables attackers to execute arbitrary JavaScript code within the context of a user's browser session, potentially compromising the integrity of the application's intended functionality. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and output encoding mechanisms within the web UI components that process user-supplied data. When users interact with the application through the web interface, maliciously crafted input can be processed and rendered without proper sanitization, creating an attack vector for XSS exploitation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script execution to potentially enable session hijacking and credential theft within trusted user sessions. Attackers can leverage this weakness to steal session cookies, access sensitive information, or perform actions on behalf of authenticated users. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates within the trusted application environment, making detection more challenging for security monitoring systems. This type of attack aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 which involves the use of JavaScript in command and control operations. The attack chain typically involves initial access through malicious input, followed by session manipulation and data exfiltration. The vulnerability affects the web-based management interface of IBM InfoSphere Information Server, which is commonly used for data integration and information governance tasks, making it a valuable target for adversaries seeking to access enterprise data repositories.
Organizations utilizing these IBM InfoSphere versions should implement immediate mitigations to address this vulnerability. The most effective approach involves implementing proper input validation and output encoding mechanisms throughout the web application stack to prevent malicious scripts from being executed. Security patches provided by IBM should be applied promptly to remediate the vulnerability. Additional protective measures include implementing content security policies, using secure coding practices for input sanitization, and deploying web application firewalls to monitor and filter malicious traffic. Regular security testing and vulnerability assessments should be conducted to identify similar weaknesses in the application architecture. Organizations should also consider implementing user session management controls and monitoring for suspicious activities within the application interface to detect potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of maintaining secure web application development practices and highlights the need for continuous security updates to protect enterprise information systems from evolving threats.