CVE-2018-2021 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Learn about CVE-2018-2021 affecting IBM QRadar SIEM versions 7.2 and 7.3. Understand the impact, technical details, and mitigation steps to prevent cross-site scripting attacks.
IBM QRadar SIEM versions 7.2 and 7.3 are vulnerable to cross-site scripting, allowing unauthorized JavaScript code injection into the Web UI, potentially compromising system functionality and exposing credentials.
Understanding CVE-2018-2021
IBM QRadar SIEM versions 7.2 and 7.3 are susceptible to a cross-site scripting vulnerability identified by IBM X-Force.
What is CVE-2018-2021?
CVE-2018-2021 is a security vulnerability in IBM QRadar SIEM versions 7.2 and 7.3 that enables users to insert unauthorized JavaScript code into the Web UI, potentially leading to the modification of system functionality and credential exposure within trusted sessions.
The Impact of CVE-2018-2021
The vulnerability poses a medium severity risk with a CVSS base score of 6.1, allowing attackers to exploit the system with high exploit code maturity.
Technical Details of CVE-2018-2021
IBM QRadar SIEM versions 7.2 and 7.3 are affected by a cross-site scripting vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability allows users to embed arbitrary JavaScript code in the Web UI, altering system functionality and potentially exposing credentials within trusted sessions.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: QRadar SIEM
- Vendor: IBM
- Vulnerable Versions: 7.2, 7.3
Exploitation Mechanism
- Attack Complexity: Low
- Attack Vector: Network
- User Interaction: Required
- Privileges Required: None
- Exploit Code Maturity: High
Mitigation and Prevention
Immediate Steps to Take:
- Apply official fixes provided by IBM to address the vulnerability.
- Monitor for any unauthorized access or unusual activities on the system.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update and patch the QRadar SIEM software to prevent future vulnerabilities.
- Educate users on safe browsing practices to minimize the risk of cross-site scripting attacks.
- Implement network security measures to detect and block malicious code injections.
Patching and Updates
Ensure that all security patches and updates released by IBM for QRadar SIEM are promptly applied to mitigate the risk of cross-site scripting vulnerabilities.