CVE-2020-4591 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

IBM Spectrum Protect Server versions 8.1.0.000 through 8.1.10.000 could expose sensitive information due to encryption issues in non-default settings.

Understanding CVE-2020-4591

IBM Spectrum Protect Server versions 8.1.0.000 through 8.1.10.000 are affected by a vulnerability that could lead to the disclosure of sensitive data.

What is CVE-2020-4591?

This CVE involves the occasional failure to encrypt the second chunk of an object in an encrypted container pool, potentially exposing sensitive information.

The Impact of CVE-2020-4591

CVSS Base Score: 2.9 (Low Severity)
Attack Complexity: High
Attack Vector: Local
Confidentiality Impact: Low
Integrity Impact: None
Exploit Code Maturity: Unproven
Privileges Required: None
User Interaction: None
This vulnerability could allow an attacker to access sensitive data in certain configurations.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-4591

IBM Spectrum Protect Server vulnerability details and affected systems.

Vulnerability Description

The issue arises from the failure to consistently encrypt the second chunk of an object in an encrypted container pool.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Spectrum Protect Server
Vendor: IBM
Affected Versions: 8.1.0.000, 8.1.10.000

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability could be exploited by an attacker with local access to the system, potentially leading to the exposure of sensitive information.

Mitigation and Prevention

Steps to mitigate the CVE-2020-4591 vulnerability.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply the official fix provided by IBM to address the encryption issue.
Monitor for any unauthorized access to sensitive data.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly review and update encryption configurations.
Implement access controls to limit exposure of sensitive information.

Patching and Updates

Ensure that the IBM Spectrum Protect Server is updated to a version that includes the fix for this vulnerability.