CVE-2019-4555 : What You Need to Know

IBM Cognos Analytics versions 11.0 and 11.1 are susceptible to a cross-site scripting vulnerability that allows malicious users to inject JavaScript code into the Web UI, potentially compromising the system's intended functionality and exposing credentials. This CVE was published on December 19, 2019, with a CVSS base score of 5.4.

Understanding CVE-2019-4555

This CVE pertains to a security issue in IBM Cognos Analytics versions 11.0 and 11.1 related to cross-site scripting.

What is CVE-2019-4555?

IBM Cognos Analytics versions 11.0 and 11.1 are affected by a cross-site scripting vulnerability.
The vulnerability allows attackers to insert JavaScript code into the Web UI, potentially leading to unauthorized access and data exposure.

The Impact of CVE-2019-4555

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability to manipulate the system's behavior and compromise sensitive information.
There is a risk of credentials being disclosed within a trusted session, posing a threat to data confidentiality.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-4555

IBM Cognos Analytics versions 11.0 and 11.1 are affected by a cross-site scripting vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability enables users to insert arbitrary JavaScript code into the Web UI, altering the system's intended functionality.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Cognos Analytics
Vendor: IBM
Vulnerable Versions: 11.0, 11.1

Exploitation Mechanism

Attack Complexity: Low
Attack Vector: Network
Privileges Required: Low
User Interaction: Required
Exploit Code Maturity: High

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take:

Apply official fixes provided by IBM to address the vulnerability.
Monitor for any unusual activities that may indicate exploitation of the vulnerability.

Long-Term Security Practices:

Regularly update and patch the software to prevent security vulnerabilities.
Educate users on safe browsing practices and the risks of executing untrusted code.
Implement security measures such as Content Security Policy (CSP) to mitigate cross-site scripting attacks.
Conduct security assessments and penetration testing to identify and remediate vulnerabilities.
Stay informed about security advisories and updates from IBM and other relevant sources.
Consider implementing web application firewalls to detect and block malicious traffic.

Patching and Updates

IBM has released official fixes to address the cross-site scripting vulnerability in Cognos Analytics versions 11.0 and 11.1.