CVE-2022-43928 in DB2 Mirror for i
Summary
by MITRE • 04/07/2023
The IBM Toolbox for Java (Db2 Mirror for i 7.4 and 7.5) could allow a user to obtain sensitive information, caused by utilizing a Java string for processing. Since Java strings are immutable, their contents exist in memory until garbage collected. This means sensitive data could be visible in memory over an indefinite amount of time. IBM has addressed this issue by reducing the amount of time the sensitive data is visible in memory. IBM X-Force ID: 241675.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/24/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-43928 affects IBM Toolbox for Java, specifically within Db2 Mirror for i versions 7.4 and 7.5, representing a significant information disclosure risk that stems from improper handling of sensitive data within the Java runtime environment. This weakness exposes sensitive information through memory persistence issues that arise from the immutable nature of Java string objects, creating a persistent exposure window where confidential data remains accessible in memory long after its intended use period. The vulnerability manifests when the application processes sensitive information through Java string objects, which maintain their contents in memory until garbage collection occurs, potentially leaving data accessible for extended periods.
The technical flaw resides in the fundamental design characteristics of Java string immutability where sensitive data stored within string objects remains in memory indefinitely until the garbage collector reclaims the memory space. This behavior creates an inherent security risk because the sensitive information processing occurs within the application's memory space, where it can be accessed by malicious actors through various memory inspection techniques. The vulnerability classification aligns with CWE-200, which addresses "Information Exposure," and specifically relates to CWE-549, "Information Exposure Through Immutability," where the immutability of string objects creates unintended information disclosure. From an operational perspective, this vulnerability allows attackers with memory access privileges to potentially extract sensitive data that was processed through the affected Java application, including but not limited to authentication credentials, personal identification information, or other confidential business data.
The impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data exposure as it creates a persistent threat vector that can be exploited over time, with the potential for data recovery even after the application has completed its processing cycle. Attackers could leverage various techniques including memory dumps, process inspection, or direct memory access to recover the sensitive information that was temporarily stored within Java string objects. This vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper data handling practices within managed runtime environments and highlights the need for applications to implement additional protective measures beyond the default language behaviors. The IBM security response addressed this by implementing mechanisms to reduce the visibility period of sensitive data in memory, though the fundamental risk remains when applications process sensitive information through string-based operations.
Organizations utilizing Db2 Mirror for i 7.4 and 7.5 should implement comprehensive mitigation strategies that include reviewing application code for sensitive data handling practices, implementing additional data sanitization measures, and ensuring proper memory management protocols are followed. The remediation approach should align with ATT&CK technique T1552.001, "Unsecured Credentials," as it addresses information exposure through memory-based attacks. Additionally, system administrators should consider implementing memory protection mechanisms, monitoring for unauthorized memory access patterns, and establishing proper data lifecycle management practices to minimize the window of exposure. The vulnerability also underscores the importance of following secure coding practices and adhering to security guidelines that specifically address memory management and sensitive data handling within Java applications, particularly in enterprise environments where data protection is paramount.