CVE-2018-1905 : What You Need to Know
Learn about CVE-2018-1905 affecting IBM WebSphere Application Server versions 9.0.0.0 to 9.0.0.9. Understand the XXE vulnerability impact, technical details, and mitigation steps.
IBM WebSphere Application Server versions 9.0.0.0 through 9.0.0.9 are vulnerable to an XML External Entity Injection (XXE) attack. This CVE was published on November 20, 2018.
Understanding CVE-2018-1905
This CVE affects IBM WebSphere Application Server versions 9.0.0.0 through 9.0.0.9 and poses a high severity risk.
What is CVE-2018-1905?
The vulnerability in XML data processing in IBM WebSphere Application Server versions 9.0.0.0 through 9.0.0.9 allows for an XML External Entity Injection (XXE) attack. Successful exploitation could result in sensitive information exposure or excessive memory resource consumption.
The Impact of CVE-2018-1905
- CVSS Base Score: 7.1 (High Severity)
- Attack Vector: Network
- Confidentiality Impact: High
- Availability Impact: Low
- Exploit Code Maturity: Unproven
- Vector String: CVSS:3.0/A:L/AC:L/AV:N/C:H/I:N/PR:L/S:U/UI:N/E:U/RC:C/RL:O
Technical Details of CVE-2018-1905
This section provides detailed technical information about the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability allows remote attackers to conduct an XXE attack on the affected IBM WebSphere Application Server versions.
Affected Systems and Versions
- IBM WebSphere Application Server 9.0.0.0
- IBM WebSphere Application Server 9.0.0.1
- IBM WebSphere Application Server 9.0.0.2
- IBM WebSphere Application Server 9.0.0.3
- IBM WebSphere Application Server 9.0.0.4
- IBM WebSphere Application Server 9.0.0.5
- IBM WebSphere Application Server 9.0.0.6
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability can be exploited by manipulating XML data to launch an XXE attack, potentially leading to information exposure or resource exhaustion.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting systems from CVE-2018-1905 is crucial to maintaining security.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply official fixes provided by IBM to address the vulnerability.
- Monitor for any unusual activity that could indicate exploitation attempts.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update and patch IBM WebSphere Application Server to prevent known vulnerabilities.
- Implement network security measures to detect and block XXE attacks.
Patching and Updates
- Stay informed about security updates and patches released by IBM for WebSphere Application Server.