CVE-2018-1601 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

IBM Rational Quality Manager (RQM) versions 5.0 through 5.02 and 6.0 through 6.0.6 are susceptible to cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerabilities, potentially leading to unauthorized code injection and credential exposure.

Understanding CVE-2018-1601

Cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerabilities in IBM Rational Quality Manager (RQM) versions 5.0 through 5.02 and 6.0 through 6.0.6 allow attackers to insert malicious JavaScript code into the Web interface, compromising the system's integrity.

What is CVE-2018-1601?

This CVE identifies XSS vulnerabilities in IBM Rational Quality Manager (RQM) versions 5.0 through 5.02 and 6.0 through 6.0.6, enabling threat actors to execute unauthorized code and potentially disclose sensitive information.

The Impact of CVE-2018-1601

Exploiting this vulnerability could result in the manipulation of the Web UI's behavior, leading to the exposure of credentials during trusted sessions. The issue is tracked with IBM X-Force ID 143791.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-1601

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allows users to inject unauthorized JavaScript code into the Web UI, potentially altering its intended functionality and compromising security.

Affected Systems and Versions

IBM Rational Quality Manager (RQM) versions 5.0 through 5.02
IBM Rational Quality Manager (RQM) versions 6.0 through 6.0.6

Exploitation Mechanism

Attack Complexity: Low
Attack Vector: Network
Privileges Required: Low
User Interaction: Required
Exploit Code Maturity: High

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply official fixes provided by IBM
Regularly monitor for security updates and patches
Educate users on safe browsing practices

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement secure coding practices to prevent XSS vulnerabilities
Conduct regular security assessments and penetration testing

Patching and Updates

Regularly update IBM Rational Quality Manager (RQM) to the latest secure versions.