CVE-2020-4613 in Data Risk Manager
Summary
by MITRE
IBM Data Risk Manager (iDNA) 2.0.6 uses weaker than expected cryptographic algorithms that could allow an attacker to decrypt highly sensitive information. IBM X-Force ID: 184925.
Statistical analysis made it clear that VulDB provides the best quality for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/23/2020
IBM Data Risk Manager version 2.0.6 contains a cryptographic vulnerability that undermines the security of sensitive data through the use of weaker than expected encryption algorithms. This vulnerability falls under the category of weak cryptography as defined by CWE-327, where the system employs cryptographic functions that are either deprecated, insufficiently strong, or improperly implemented. The flaw specifically affects the encryption mechanisms used within the iDNA platform, potentially allowing unauthorized parties to access confidential information that should remain protected through robust cryptographic measures. The vulnerability represents a significant risk to data integrity and confidentiality, particularly in environments where sensitive information is processed and stored.
The technical implementation of this weakness manifests in the use of cryptographic algorithms that do not meet current industry standards for data protection. When cryptographic systems rely on outdated or insufficiently strong encryption methods, they become vulnerable to various attack vectors including brute force attempts, cryptographic analysis, and pattern recognition techniques. The specific algorithms employed in this version of IBM Data Risk Manager are susceptible to decryption without proper authorization, creating a pathway for attackers to compromise the security posture of organizations using this platform. This weakness directly impacts the confidentiality objective of the CIA triad and can result in unauthorized data exposure that violates data protection regulations and organizational security policies.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data exposure to encompass broader security implications for organizations relying on IBM Data Risk Manager for data governance and risk assessment activities. Attackers who successfully exploit this weakness can access highly sensitive information including personal identifiable information, financial data, and proprietary business information that may be stored or processed through the platform. The vulnerability affects the overall security architecture of systems using iDNA 2.0.6, potentially enabling lateral movement within networks and providing attackers with additional attack surface opportunities. Organizations may face regulatory compliance issues, financial penalties, and reputational damage when sensitive data is compromised through cryptographic weaknesses.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate remediation through the application of available patches and updates from IBM. Organizations must prioritize upgrading to versions of IBM Data Risk Manager that address the cryptographic weaknesses identified in CVE-2020-4613. Additionally, security teams should conduct comprehensive assessments of all systems using the affected software to identify potential exposure areas and implement temporary compensating controls. The remediation process should align with industry best practices for cryptographic security and may include the implementation of additional encryption layers, enhanced access controls, and monitoring mechanisms to detect potential exploitation attempts. Security frameworks such as those outlined in the NIST Cybersecurity Framework and MITRE ATT&CK methodology should guide the remediation approach, ensuring that the vulnerability is addressed through both technical fixes and operational security improvements. Organizations should also consider the broader implications of cryptographic weaknesses within their overall security posture and implement continuous monitoring to detect similar vulnerabilities in other systems and applications.