CVE-2018-1663 : Security Advisory and Response
Learn about CVE-2018-1663 affecting IBM DataPower Gateways versions 7.5, 7.5.1, 7.5.2, 7.6, and 2018.4. Understand the impact, technical details, and mitigation steps.
IBM DataPower Gateways versions 7.5, 7.5.1, 7.5.2, 7.6, and 2018.4 are affected by a vulnerability that could lead to unauthorized data disclosure.
Understanding CVE-2018-1663
This CVE involves the lack of proper activation of HTTP Strict Transport Security in IBM DataPower Gateways, potentially enabling a remote attacker to extract sensitive information.
What is CVE-2018-1663?
The vulnerability in IBM DataPower Gateways versions 7.5, 7.5.1, 7.5.2, 7.6, and 2018.4 allows for unauthorized disclosure of sensitive data due to improper activation of HTTP Strict Transport Security. Attackers can exploit this to extract valuable information using man-in-the-middle techniques.
The Impact of CVE-2018-1663
The vulnerability poses a medium severity risk with a CVSS base score of 5.9, affecting confidentiality with high impact. If exploited, it could lead to unauthorized access to sensitive data.
Technical Details of CVE-2018-1663
The technical aspects of the CVE provide insight into the vulnerability and its implications.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability arises from the failure to enable HTTP Strict Transport Security properly, allowing attackers to intercept sensitive data.
Affected Systems and Versions
- IBM DataPower Gateways 7.5
- IBM DataPower Gateways 7.5.1
- IBM DataPower Gateways 7.5.2
- IBM DataPower Gateways 7.6
- IBM DataPower Gateways 2018.4
Exploitation Mechanism
- Attack Complexity: High
- Attack Vector: Network
- Privileges Required: None
- User Interaction: None
- Exploit Code Maturity: Unproven
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting systems from CVE-2018-1663 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply official fixes provided by IBM to address the vulnerability.
- Monitor network traffic for any suspicious activities that could indicate exploitation.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Implement HTTPS and ensure proper configuration of security protocols.
- Regularly update and patch IBM DataPower Gateways to prevent known vulnerabilities.
Patching and Updates
- IBM has released official fixes to address the vulnerability in affected versions.