CVE-2020-4661 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

IBM Security Access Manager 9.0.7 and IBM Security Verify Access 10.0.0 have a vulnerability that could allow attackers to obtain sensitive information through timing side channel attacks.

Understanding CVE-2020-4661

This CVE involves a security vulnerability in IBM Security Access Manager and IBM Security Verify Access that could be exploited by attackers.

What is CVE-2020-4661?

The vulnerability in IBM Security Access Manager 9.0.7 and IBM Security Verify Access 10.0.0 allows attackers to gather sensitive data using timing side channel attacks, potentially leading to further system compromises.

The Impact of CVE-2020-4661

The vulnerability poses a medium severity risk with a CVSS base score of 5.3, affecting confidentiality.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-4661

This section provides more technical insights into the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in IBM Security Access Manager 9.0.7 and IBM Security Verify Access 10.0.0 enables attackers to extract sensitive information through timing side channel attacks.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Security Access Manager
Vendor: IBM
Version: 9.0.7
Product: Security Verify Access
Vendor: IBM
Version: 10.0.0

Exploitation Mechanism

Attack Complexity: High
Attack Vector: Adjacent Network
Confidentiality Impact: High
Privileges Required: None
Exploit Code Maturity: Unproven

Mitigation and Prevention

Steps to address and prevent the CVE.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply official fixes provided by IBM for Security Access Manager and Security Verify Access.
Monitor for any unusual activities on the affected systems.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch the systems to prevent known vulnerabilities.
Implement network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure.

Patching and Updates

Ensure all systems are updated with the latest security patches from IBM to mitigate the vulnerability.