CVE-2020-4421 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

IBM WebSphere Application Liberty 19.0.0.5 through 20.0.0.4 could allow an authenticated user using openidconnect to spoof another user's identity. This vulnerability has a CVSS base score of 5.0.

Understanding CVE-2020-4421

This CVE involves a security vulnerability in IBM WebSphere Application Server Liberty versions 19.0.0.5 through 20.0.0.4 that could be exploited by an authenticated user to impersonate another user.

What is CVE-2020-4421?

CVE-2020-4421 is a vulnerability in IBM WebSphere Application Server Liberty that allows an authenticated user to spoof another user's identity using openidconnect.

The Impact of CVE-2020-4421

The vulnerability could lead to unauthorized access and potential misuse of user identities within the affected systems.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-4421

This section provides more in-depth technical details of the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in IBM WebSphere Application Server Liberty versions 19.0.0.5 through 20.0.0.4 allows an authenticated user to impersonate another user using openidconnect.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: WebSphere Application Server Liberty
Vendor: IBM
Affected Versions: 19.0.0.5, 20.0.0.4

Exploitation Mechanism

Attack Complexity: High
Attack Vector: Network
Privileges Required: Low
User Interaction: None
Exploit Code Maturity: Unproven

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2020-4421, follow these mitigation and prevention strategies.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply the official fix provided by IBM.
Monitor for any unauthorized access or identity spoofing activities.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch the WebSphere Application Server Liberty to the latest version.
Educate users on secure authentication practices to prevent identity spoofing.

Patching and Updates

Ensure that all security patches and updates for IBM WebSphere Application Server Liberty are promptly applied.