CVE-2022-34358 in IBM
Summary
by MITRE • 07/13/2022
IBM i 7.2, 7.3, 7.4, and 7.5 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: 230516.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/23/2022
This cross-site scripting vulnerability exists within IBM i operating system versions 7.2, 7.3, 7.4, and 7.5, specifically affecting the web-based user interface components. The flaw represents a critical security weakness that enables malicious actors to inject arbitrary JavaScript code into the web application's interface, fundamentally compromising the integrity of the user experience and system security. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and output encoding mechanisms within the web UI rendering processes, allowing attackers to manipulate the application's behavior through crafted malicious inputs.
The technical implementation of this XSS vulnerability occurs when user-supplied data is directly incorporated into web page content without proper sanitization or encoding. Attackers can exploit this weakness by submitting malicious payloads through various input vectors within the IBM i web interface, such as form fields, URL parameters, or other user-controllable data entry points. When the vulnerable system processes and displays this malicious data without appropriate security measures, the embedded JavaScript code executes within the context of authenticated users' sessions, potentially compromising the confidentiality and integrity of sensitive information.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script execution, as it creates a pathway for credential theft and session hijacking within trusted environments. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can steal session cookies, access sensitive data, modify user permissions, or perform actions on behalf of authenticated users. This risk is particularly severe in enterprise environments where IBM i systems often handle critical business data and administrative functions. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-79, which specifically addresses cross-site scripting flaws in web applications, and represents a significant deviation from secure coding practices that should prevent untrusted data from being executed as code.
The attack surface for this vulnerability encompasses all web-based administrative interfaces and user-facing components of IBM i systems, making it particularly dangerous for organizations that rely heavily on web-based management tools. Organizations utilizing IBM i systems in environments where users have administrative access or handle sensitive data face the highest risk of exploitation. This vulnerability can be leveraged as part of broader attack chains, potentially enabling privilege escalation or lateral movement within network environments. The IBM X-Force ID 230516 indicates that this vulnerability has been recognized and tracked by security vendors, emphasizing its significance in the threat landscape and the need for immediate remediation.
Mitigation strategies should include immediate deployment of IBM's security patches and updates, implementation of proper input validation and output encoding mechanisms, and enhanced web application security monitoring. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls, content security policies, and regular security assessments to prevent exploitation. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of maintaining up-to-date security measures and following secure coding practices as outlined in industry standards and best practices for web application security. Additionally, user education and awareness programs should be implemented to recognize potential phishing attempts that may exploit this vulnerability.