CVE-2019-4686 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

IBM Security Guardium Data Encryption (GDE) 3.0.0.2 is vulnerable due to the absence of the Secure attribute on authorization tokens or session cookies. Attackers can exploit this to access cookie values, potentially compromising user data.

Understanding CVE-2019-4686

This CVE highlights a security vulnerability in IBM Security Guardium Data Encryption (GDE) 3.0.0.2, allowing unauthorized access to sensitive cookie information.

What is CVE-2019-4686?

The absence of the Secure attribute on authorization tokens or session cookies in IBM Security Guardium Data Encryption (GDE) 3.0.0.2 exposes a security flaw.
Attackers can intercept cookie values by sending HTTP links to users or embedding links on visited websites.
Identified by IBM X-Force with ID 171822.

The Impact of CVE-2019-4686

CVSS Score: 3.7 (Low Severity)
Attack Vector: Network
Confidentiality Impact: Low
Integrity Impact: None
Exploit Code Maturity: Unproven
Remediation Level: Official Fix
This vulnerability poses a risk of unauthorized access to sensitive user data.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-4686

IBM Security Guardium Data Encryption (GDE) 3.0.0.2 vulnerability details.

Vulnerability Description

The Secure attribute is not set on authorization tokens or session cookies, enabling attackers to intercept and obtain cookie values.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Security Guardium Data Encryption
Vendor: IBM
Version: 3.0.0.2

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers exploit the absence of the Secure attribute on cookies to intercept sensitive information.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2019-4686.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply the official fix provided by IBM to address the vulnerability.
Educate users about the risks of clicking on unknown links or visiting suspicious websites.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement secure cookie handling practices to prevent unauthorized access.
Regularly update and patch systems to mitigate potential vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security bulletins and updates from IBM to address known vulnerabilities.