CVE-2024-25019 in Cognos Controller
Summary
by MITRE • 12/03/2024
IBM Cognos Controller 11.0.0 and 11.0.1
could be vulnerable to malicious file upload by not validating the type of file uploaded to Journal entry attachments. Attackers can make use of this weakness and upload malicious executable files into the system that can be sent to victims for performing further attacks.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/22/2025
IBM Cognos Controller versions 11.0.0 and 11.0.1 contain a critical file upload vulnerability that stems from insufficient validation of attachment file types during journal entry processing. This weakness represents a classic security flaw categorized under CWE-434, which specifically addresses the insecure upload of file content. The vulnerability allows attackers to bypass normal file validation mechanisms and upload malicious executable files directly into the system's journal entry attachment storage. The flaw exists because the application fails to properly enforce file type restrictions or perform adequate content analysis on uploaded files, creating an attack surface that can be exploited through the journal entry submission interface. This vulnerability directly aligns with ATT&CK technique T1195.001 for Stage 1 of the attack chain, where adversaries establish initial access through malicious file uploads.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is significant as it provides attackers with a persistent foothold within the system infrastructure. Once malicious files are uploaded, they can be executed by unsuspecting users who access the journal entry attachments, creating a vector for privilege escalation and lateral movement. The vulnerability enables attackers to perform various malicious activities including but not limited to executing arbitrary code, establishing backdoors, or deploying additional malware payloads. The nature of the application being a financial reporting tool means that successful exploitation could lead to data manipulation, unauthorized financial transactions, or complete system compromise. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to gain unauthorized access to sensitive financial data and potentially disrupt business operations.
Organizations using IBM Cognos Controller 11.0.0 and 11.0.1 should immediately implement multiple layers of defense to mitigate this risk. The primary mitigation involves implementing strict file type validation that enforces whitelisting of acceptable file extensions and content types. This includes configuring the application to reject executable files, script files, and other potentially malicious file types during the upload process. Additionally, organizations should deploy content inspection mechanisms that analyze file headers and content to detect malicious payloads even if file extensions are disguised. Network-level protections such as web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems should be configured to monitor and block suspicious upload activities. Regular security assessments and penetration testing should be conducted to verify that the implemented controls are effective. IBM has released patches and updates to address this vulnerability, and organizations must apply these updates as soon as possible while maintaining proper backup and rollback procedures to ensure business continuity.