CVE-2018-1643 : Security Advisory and Response
Learn about CVE-2018-1643 affecting IBM WebSphere Application Server versions 7.0, 8.0, 8.5, and 9.0. Discover the impact, technical details, and mitigation steps for this Cross-Site Scripting vulnerability.
IBM WebSphere Application Server versions 7.0, 8.0, 8.5, and 9.0 have a security weakness in their Installation Verification Tool that allows users to insert JavaScript code into the Web UI, potentially exposing credentials during a trusted session.
Understanding CVE-2018-1643
This CVE involves a Cross-Site Scripting vulnerability in IBM WebSphere Application Server versions 7.0, 8.0, 8.5, and 9.0.
What is CVE-2018-1643?
The vulnerability in the Installation Verification Tool of IBM WebSphere Application Server versions 7.0, 8.0, 8.5, and 9.0 enables users to inject JavaScript code into the Web UI, altering its behavior and potentially leading to credential exposure.
The Impact of CVE-2018-1643
- CVSS Base Score: 6.1 (Medium Severity)
- Attack Vector: Network
- Exploit Code Maturity: High
- User Interaction: Required
- Scope: Changed
- Confidentiality Impact: Low
- Integrity Impact: Low
- Availability Impact: None
Technical Details of CVE-2018-1643
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability allows attackers to execute arbitrary JavaScript code in the Web UI, compromising the intended functionality and potentially exposing sensitive information.
Affected Systems and Versions
- IBM WebSphere Application Server 7.0
- IBM WebSphere Application Server 8.0
- IBM WebSphere Application Server 8.5
- IBM WebSphere Application Server 9.0
Exploitation Mechanism
Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by injecting malicious JavaScript code into the Web UI, manipulating the behavior of the application and potentially gaining unauthorized access to sensitive data.
Mitigation and Prevention
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply official fixes provided by IBM to address the vulnerability.
- Regularly monitor and review security configurations to detect and prevent similar vulnerabilities.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Conduct regular security assessments and penetration testing to identify and remediate vulnerabilities.
- Educate users and developers on secure coding practices to prevent Cross-Site Scripting attacks.
Patching and Updates
- Keep the IBM WebSphere Application Server up to date with the latest security patches and updates to mitigate known vulnerabilities.