CVE-2024-40697 in Common Licensing
Summary
by MITRE • 08/13/2024
IBM Common Licensing 9.0 does not require that users should have strong passwords by default, which makes it easier for attackers to compromise user accounts. IBM X-Force ID: 297895.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/22/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-40697 affects IBM Common Licensing version 9.0, a critical component in enterprise software licensing management systems. This weakness represents a significant security gap in the platform's authentication mechanisms, specifically concerning password strength requirements. The flaw allows users to create accounts with weak passwords, undermining the fundamental security posture of the licensing system. The vulnerability has been catalogued by IBM X-Force under ID 297895, indicating its recognition within the security community as a potential threat vector requiring immediate attention.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from the absence of mandatory strong password policies within the IBM Common Licensing 9.0 framework. This design flaw falls under the category of inadequate authentication mechanisms, which aligns with CWE-521 Weak Password Requirements. The system fails to enforce minimum password complexity requirements such as minimum length, character variety, and resistance to common dictionary attacks. Attackers can exploit this weakness by creating or compromising user accounts with easily guessable passwords, potentially gaining unauthorized access to licensing information and system resources.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple account compromise, as it creates persistent security risks for organizations relying on IBM Common Licensing 9.0. The weakness enables credential stuffing attacks, brute force attempts, and other password-based exploitation techniques that are well-documented in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the credential access tactics. Organizations may experience unauthorized access to licensing data, potential privilege escalation, and exposure of sensitive enterprise information. The vulnerability particularly affects environments where licensing systems control access to critical software assets and where user accounts are not properly monitored for weak authentication credentials.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on implementing comprehensive password policies and strengthening authentication controls. Organizations should consider applying the latest IBM patches and updates to address the weak password requirements in IBM Common Licensing 9.0. Additionally, implementing multi-factor authentication, regular password audits, and continuous monitoring of user account activities can significantly reduce the risk associated with weak passwords. Security teams should also conduct thorough vulnerability assessments to identify other systems within their environment that may be similarly affected by weak password policies, as this represents a common pattern in enterprise software security configurations.