CVE-2020-4949 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

IBM WebSphere Application Server versions 7.0, 8.0, 8.5, and 9.0 are susceptible to an XML External Entity Injection (XXE) attack, potentially leading to information exposure or resource consumption.

Understanding CVE-2020-4949

IBM WebSphere Application Server versions 7.0, 8.0, 8.5, and 9.0 are affected by an XXE vulnerability that could be exploited by a remote attacker.

What is CVE-2020-4949?

This CVE refers to a vulnerability in IBM WebSphere Application Server versions 7.0, 8.0, 8.5, and 9.0 that allows for XML External Entity Injection (XXE) attacks. By manipulating XML data, a malicious actor could potentially access sensitive information or cause resource exhaustion.

The Impact of CVE-2020-4949

CVSS Base Score: 8.2 (High Severity)
Attack Vector: Network
Confidentiality Impact: High
Availability Impact: Low
Temporal Score: 7.1 (High Severity)
Exploiting this vulnerability could lead to unauthorized access to confidential data and potential denial of service.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-4949

IBM WebSphere Application Server versions 7.0, 8.0, 8.5, and 9.0 are affected by an XXE vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allows for XML External Entity Injection (XXE) attacks.

Affected Systems and Versions

IBM WebSphere Application Server 7.0
IBM WebSphere Application Server 8.0
IBM WebSphere Application Server 8.5
IBM WebSphere Application Server 9.0

Exploitation Mechanism

Remote attackers can exploit this vulnerability by manipulating XML data to execute XXE attacks.

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take:

Apply official fixes provided by IBM to address the vulnerability.
Monitor IBM's security bulletins for updates and patches. Long-Term Security Practices:
Regularly update and patch IBM WebSphere Application Server installations.
Implement network security measures to prevent unauthorized access.
Conduct regular security assessments and audits.
Educate users and administrators about secure coding practices.
Stay informed about emerging threats and vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

IBM has released official fixes to address the XXE vulnerability in affected versions of WebSphere Application Server.