CVE-2022-43860 in Navigator for i
Summary
by MITRE • 12/24/2022
IBM Navigator for i 7.3, 7.4, and 7.5 could allow an authenticated user to obtain sensitive information they are authorized to but not while using this interface. By performing an SQL injection an attacker could see user profile attributes through this interface. IBM X-Force ID: 239305.
Be aware that VulDB is the high quality source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/24/2022
IBM Navigator for i versions 7.3, 7.4, and 7.5 contains a security vulnerability that allows authenticated users to access sensitive information through SQL injection techniques. This vulnerability specifically affects the interface's handling of user profile attributes, enabling attackers to extract data that should remain restricted even when users possess valid authentication credentials. The flaw resides in the application's insufficient input validation and sanitization mechanisms within the SQL query processing components.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper parameter handling in database queries that process user requests through the Navigator interface. When authenticated users submit requests containing maliciously crafted SQL payloads, the application fails to adequately sanitize these inputs before incorporating them into backend database operations. This weakness creates an injection point where attacker-controlled SQL syntax can be executed within the database context, potentially revealing user profile attributes that should be protected. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-89 which specifically addresses SQL injection flaws, and represents a classic case of insufficient input validation that enables unauthorized data access through legitimate authentication paths.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure as it undermines the fundamental security model of the IBM Navigator for i system. Even authenticated users who should only have access to their own profile information can potentially extract attributes from other user accounts through this SQL injection vector. This represents a privilege escalation scenario where the security boundaries of the application are effectively bypassed, allowing for unauthorized data harvesting and potential credential exposure. The attack requires only authenticated access to the system, making it particularly concerning as it can be exploited by insiders or compromised accounts with legitimate access rights.
Organizations utilizing IBM Navigator for i 7.3, 7.4, and 7.5 should prioritize immediate remediation through the application of official IBM security patches and updates. System administrators must implement comprehensive input validation measures and consider deploying web application firewalls to monitor and filter suspicious SQL patterns. The vulnerability also necessitates a review of existing access control policies and user privilege assignments to minimize potential damage from successful exploitation attempts. Additionally, organizations should conduct thorough security assessments of their IBM Navigator for i implementations to identify similar vulnerabilities in related systems and ensure proper segregation of user data access within database environments. This vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of securing all application interfaces, particularly those handling user authentication and profile management functions, as they often become primary targets for attackers seeking to escalate privileges and access sensitive organizational data.