CVE-2023-42016 in Sterling B2B Integrator
Summary
by MITRE • 02/09/2024
IBM Sterling B2B Integrator Standard Edition 6.0.0.0 through 6.0.3.8 and 6.1.0.0 through 6.1.2.3 does not set the secure attribute on authorization tokens or session cookies. Attackers may be able to get the cookie values by sending a http:// link to a user or by planting this link in a site the user goes to. The cookie will be sent to the insecure link and the attacker can then obtain the cookie value by snooping the traffic. IBM X-Force ID: 265559.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/09/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-42016 affects IBM Sterling B2B Integrator Standard Edition versions ranging from 6.0.0.0 through 6.0.3.8 and 6.1.0.0 through 6.1.2.3. This security flaw represents a critical weakness in the application's session management implementation where authorization tokens and session cookies lack the secure attribute flag. The secure attribute is a fundamental HTTP cookie security mechanism that ensures cookies are only transmitted over HTTPS connections, preventing interception through unencrypted HTTP traffic. Without this attribute, session identifiers become vulnerable to man-in-the-middle attacks and network traffic snooping.
The technical flaw stems from improper cookie configuration within the IBM Sterling B2B Integrator application, where session management components fail to enforce secure transmission of authentication tokens. This vulnerability creates a pathway for attackers to exploit the HTTP protocol's inherent insecurity by crafting malicious links that can capture session cookies when users navigate to compromised websites. The attack vector specifically targets the transmission of cookies over unencrypted HTTP connections, making it particularly dangerous in environments where network traffic may be intercepted or monitored. This weakness directly violates the principle of least privilege and secure communication practices that should be enforced by enterprise integration platforms handling sensitive business transactions.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple session hijacking, as it potentially allows attackers to gain unauthorized access to business-to-business integration services and sensitive data exchanges. An attacker who successfully captures a session cookie can impersonate legitimate users and perform actions within the IBM Sterling B2B Integrator environment, potentially accessing confidential business information, modifying integration workflows, or disrupting critical business processes. The vulnerability is particularly concerning for organizations using this platform for financial transactions, supply chain integrations, or other sensitive business operations where unauthorized access could result in significant financial loss or compliance violations. This weakness also exposes organizations to potential data breaches that could compromise the integrity of their entire B2B integration ecosystem.
Organizations should immediately implement mitigations including enforcing HTTPS across all application interfaces, configuring proper secure cookie attributes, and implementing network monitoring to detect suspicious traffic patterns. The recommended approach involves updating to the latest available patches from IBM that address the secure cookie implementation, while also deploying network security controls such as web application firewalls and traffic inspection tools. Additionally, organizations should conduct comprehensive security assessments of their B2B integration environments, review cookie security configurations across all applications, and implement mandatory HTTPS enforcement policies. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-614, which describes insecure cookies, and maps to ATT&CK technique T1566 for social engineering attacks and T1071 for application layer protocol usage. Regular security awareness training should be implemented to educate users about the dangers of clicking on untrusted links, as this vulnerability can be exploited through phishing campaigns or compromised websites that lure users into inadvertently exposing their session tokens to attackers.