CVE-2026-13463 in Cloud Pak System
Summary
by MITRE • 07/29/2026
IBM Cloud Pak System 2.3.5.0 could allow a local attacker to obtain sensitive information due to the insertion of credentials into log files.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/29/2026
This vulnerability in IBM Cloud Pak System 2.3.5.0 represents a critical security flaw that enables local attackers to extract sensitive authentication credentials from log files through improper handling of credential data during system operations. The issue stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization mechanisms within the logging framework, which fails to properly filter or redact sensitive information before writing it to persistent storage locations. This type of vulnerability falls under the common weakness enumeration CWE-209, which specifically addresses improper error handling that can lead to information exposure through error messages containing sensitive data.
The technical implementation flaw occurs when the system processes authentication requests or operational commands that contain credential information such as usernames, passwords, API keys, or tokens. These credentials are inadvertently included in log entries without proper sanitization, creating a persistent risk that allows local adversaries with access to log files to extract and potentially abuse this sensitive data. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates at the system level where attackers typically have elevated privileges, making exploitation more straightforward compared to network-based attacks.
Operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple credential theft to encompass potential lateral movement within the system and broader security compromise. Attackers can leverage extracted credentials to access additional system components, escalate privileges, or gain unauthorized access to connected services and databases. The persistence of credential information in log files means that even after initial exploitation, attackers can continue to harvest credentials over time, creating a sustained threat vector that traditional network monitoring tools may not detect. This vulnerability directly aligns with attack techniques documented in the attack pattern taxonomy under T1567 for credentials from password storage modules.
Security mitigation strategies should focus on implementing comprehensive log sanitization processes that automatically redact sensitive information before writing to log files. Organizations must establish strict logging policies that prohibit credential inclusion in any system output, while also deploying automated monitoring systems to detect and alert on suspicious log file access patterns. Regular security audits of log file contents, proper access controls on logging directories, and implementation of centralized logging solutions with built-in credential filtering capabilities represent essential defensive measures against this class of vulnerability. Additionally, regular patch management and configuration reviews should be conducted to ensure that logging mechanisms are properly configured according to security best practices established by industry standards such as nist 800-53 and iso 27001.