CVE-2023-50313 in WebSphere Application Server
Summary
by MITRE • 04/02/2024
IBM WebSphere Application Server 8.5 and 9.0 could provide weaker than expected security for outbound TLS connections caused by a failure to honor user configuration. IBM X-Force ID: 274812.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/08/2024
IBM WebSphere Application Server versions 8.5 and 9.0 contain a critical security vulnerability that compromises the integrity of outbound transport layer security connections. This flaw manifests when the application server fails to properly respect user-defined TLS configuration settings, resulting in weaker security assurances than anticipated by administrators. The vulnerability stems from improper handling of TLS protocol versions and cipher suites within the outbound connection establishment process, creating potential attack vectors for man-in-the-middle adversaries. According to the CWE (Common Weakness Enumeration) framework, this represents a weakness in cryptographic implementation where the system does not properly enforce security configurations. The issue directly impacts the principle of least privilege and secure communication channels, as described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the technique of privilege escalation through protocol manipulation. Organizations utilizing these WebSphere versions may experience unauthorized data interception, session hijacking, or credential theft when applications establish outbound connections to external services. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates at the network layer where sensitive data flows between application servers and external databases, APIs, or other backend services. Security researchers have identified that this flaw allows attackers to downgrade TLS connections to weaker protocol versions or force the use of insecure cipher suites, effectively nullifying the intended security protections. The impact extends beyond simple data exposure, as compromised outbound connections can lead to complete system compromise through lateral movement and data exfiltration. Organizations should immediately implement mitigations including updating to supported versions of WebSphere Application Server, enforcing strict TLS configuration policies, and monitoring outbound network connections for unusual protocol behavior. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of proper security configuration management and the need for regular security audits of middleware components. Given the widespread deployment of these WebSphere versions in enterprise environments, the potential attack surface is extensive and requires immediate attention from security teams responsible for protecting critical business applications and data flows.