CVE-2017-1231 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

IBM BigFix Platform versions 9.5 - 9.5.9 store user credentials in an unencrypted form, potentially allowing local users to access sensitive information.

Understanding CVE-2017-1231

This CVE involves the storage of user credentials in plain text within IBM BigFix Platform versions 9.5 - 9.5.9, posing a security risk.

What is CVE-2017-1231?

The vulnerability in IBM BigFix Platform versions 9.5 - 9.5.9 allows local users to read stored user credentials due to the lack of encryption.

The Impact of CVE-2017-1231

CVSS Base Score: 4.4 (Medium Severity)
Confidentiality Impact: High
Attack Vector: Local
Privileges Required: High
Exploit Code Maturity: Unproven
The vulnerability's impact is primarily on the confidentiality of user credentials.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-1231

This section provides detailed technical information about the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

User credentials in IBM BigFix Platform versions 9.5 - 9.5.9 are stored in plain text, accessible to local users.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected Systems: IBM BigFix Platform
Affected Versions: 9.5, 9.5.1, 9.5.2, 9.5.3, 9.5.4, 9.5.5, 9.5.6, 9.5.7, 9.5.8, 9.5.9

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability allows local users to directly access and read stored user credentials.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from this vulnerability is crucial for maintaining data security.

Immediate Steps to Take

Implement encryption mechanisms for user credentials storage.
Regularly monitor access to sensitive information.
Apply official fixes provided by IBM.

Long-Term Security Practices

Enforce strong password policies.
Conduct regular security audits and assessments.
Educate users on secure credential management practices.

Patching and Updates

Ensure timely installation of security patches and updates provided by IBM.