CVE-2019-8986 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

TIBCO JasperReports Server XML Entity Expansion Vulnerability

Understanding CVE-2019-8986

This CVE involves a vulnerability in the SOAP API component of TIBCO JasperReports Server and TIBCO JasperReports Server for ActiveMatrix BPM.

What is CVE-2019-8986?

The vulnerability allows an authenticated user to copy text files from the host operating system, affecting specific versions of TIBCO JasperReports Server and TIBCO JasperReports Server for ActiveMatrix BPM.

The Impact of CVE-2019-8986

The vulnerability has a CVSS base score of 7.7 (High severity) with a confidentiality impact of High. It requires low privileges and no user interaction, with a network-based attack vector.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-8986

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in the SOAP API component enables a malicious authenticated user to copy text files from the host operating system.

Affected Systems and Versions

TIBCO JasperReports Server: versions up to and including 6.3.4, 6.4.0, 6.4.1, 6.4.2, 6.4.3
TIBCO JasperReports Server for ActiveMatrix BPM: versions up to and including 6.4.3

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by an authenticated user with malicious intent to access and copy text files from the host operating system.

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

Update TIBCO JasperReports Server versions 6.3.4 and below to version 6.3.5 or higher
Update TIBCO JasperReports Server versions 6.4.0, 6.4.1, 6.4.2, and 6.4.3 to version 6.4.4 or higher
Update TIBCO JasperReports Server for ActiveMatrix BPM versions 6.4.3 and below to version 6.4.4 or higher

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly monitor and apply security patches for all software components
Conduct security assessments and audits to identify vulnerabilities proactively

Patching and Updates

TIBCO has released updated versions to address the vulnerability. Ensure all affected systems are updated to the recommended software versions.