CVE-2019-4141 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

IBM MQ versions 7.1.0.0 - 7.1.0.9, 7.5.0.0 - 7.5.0.9, 8.0.0.0 - 8.0.0.11, 9.0.0.0 - 9.0.0.6, 9.1.0.0 - 9.1.0.2, and 9.1.1 - 9.1.2 are vulnerable to a denial of service attack due to a memory leak in the clustering code.

Understanding CVE-2019-4141

This CVE identifies a vulnerability in IBM MQ software that could lead to a denial of service attack.

What is CVE-2019-4141?

The vulnerability in IBM MQ versions 7.1.0.0 - 7.1.0.9, 7.5.0.0 - 7.5.0.9, 8.0.0.0 - 8.0.0.11, 9.0.0.0 - 9.0.0.6, 9.1.0.0 - 9.1.0.2, and 9.1.1 - 9.1.2 allows attackers to exploit a memory leak in the clustering code, resulting in a denial of service.

The Impact of CVE-2019-4141

The vulnerability has a CVSSv3 base score of 5.3 (Medium severity) with a high impact on availability. It requires low privileges for exploitation and has a confirmed exploit code maturity level.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-4141

IBM MQ versions are affected by this vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allows for a denial of service attack due to a memory leak in the clustering code.

Affected Systems and Versions

IBM MQ versions 7.1.0.0 - 7.1.0.9
IBM MQ versions 7.5.0.0 - 7.5.0.9
IBM MQ versions 8.0.0.0 - 8.0.0.11
IBM MQ versions 9.0.0.0 - 9.0.0.6
IBM MQ versions 9.1.0.0 - 9.1.0.2
IBM MQ versions 9.1.1 - 9.1.2

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by attackers to trigger a denial of service attack by leveraging the memory leak in the clustering code.

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate action and long-term security practices are crucial to mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2019-4141.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply official fixes provided by IBM for the affected versions.
Monitor IBM's security bulletins for updates and patches.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch IBM MQ software to address known vulnerabilities.
Implement network security measures to prevent unauthorized access.

Patching and Updates

IBM provides official fixes for the affected versions. Ensure timely application of these patches to secure the systems.