CVE-2019-4239 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

IBM MQ Advanced Cloud Pak (versions 1.0.0 to 3.0.1) on IBM Cloud Private stores user credentials in plain text, potentially exposing them to local users. This vulnerability has a CVSS base score of 6.2.

Understanding CVE-2019-4239

This CVE involves the storage of user credentials in plain text by IBM MQ Advanced Cloud Pak on IBM Cloud Private, impacting versions 1.0.0 to 3.0.1.

What is CVE-2019-4239?

The vulnerability allows local users to access and read user credentials stored in plain text by the affected IBM MQ Advanced Cloud Pak versions.

The Impact of CVE-2019-4239

CVSS Base Score: 6.2 (Medium Severity)
Confidentiality Impact: High
Attack Vector: Local
Exploit Code Maturity: Unproven
Remediation Level: Official Fix

Technical Details of CVE-2019-4239

This section provides more technical insights into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in IBM MQ Advanced Cloud Pak allows local users to read user credentials stored in plain text, potentially leading to unauthorized access.

Affected Systems and Versions

The following systems and versions are affected:

IBM MQ Advanced Cloud Pak on IBM Cloud Private: Versions 1.0.0 to 3.0.1
IBM MQ Advanced Cloud Pak on IBM Cloud Private on RedHat OpenShift: Versions 1.0.0 to 3.0.1

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by local users to access and read sensitive user credentials stored in plain text.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2019-4239, follow these mitigation strategies:

Immediate Steps to Take

Implement the official fix provided by IBM.
Monitor user access to sensitive information.
Educate users on secure credential management practices.

Long-Term Security Practices

Encrypt sensitive user credentials to prevent unauthorized access.
Regularly audit and review access controls to sensitive data.

Patching and Updates

Apply patches and updates from IBM to secure the affected systems and versions.