CVE-2021-20346 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

IBM Jazz Foundation and IBM Engineering products are vulnerable to server-side request forgery (SSRF). This may allow an authenticated attacker to send unauthorized requests from the system, potentially leading to network enumeration or facilitating other attacks.

Understanding CVE-2021-20346

This CVE affects various IBM products like Rational Collaborative Lifecycle Management, Rational Engineering Lifecycle Manager, Engineering Lifecycle Optimization, Rational DOORS Next Generation, Rational Quality Manager, Rational Rhapsody Model Manager, and Engineering Test Management.

What is CVE-2021-20346?

CVE-2021-20346 is a vulnerability in IBM Jazz Foundation and IBM Engineering products that could enable SSRF attacks, allowing an authenticated attacker to make unauthorized requests, leading to potential network enumeration and other malicious activities.

The Impact of CVE-2021-20346

The impact of this vulnerability is rated as MEDIUM with a CVSS base score of 5.4. Although the attack complexity is low, the exploit code maturity is unproven, and user interaction is not required. Successful exploitation could compromise confidentiality and integrity.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-20346

This CVE has a CVSS v3.0 base score of 5.4, indicating a medium severity vulnerability affecting IBM products. The attack vector is through the network and requires low privileges. The vulnerability allows unauthorized requests.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability is due to SSRF in IBM Jazz Foundation and IBM Engineering products, allowing an attacker to send unauthorized requests from the system that could lead to severe consequences.

Affected Systems and Versions

The affected systems include Rational Collaborative Lifecycle Management, Rational Engineering Lifecycle Manager, Engineering Lifecycle Optimization, Rational DOORS Next Generation, Rational Quality Manager, Rational Rhapsody Model Manager, and Engineering Test Management across various versions.

Exploitation Mechanism

An authenticated attacker could exploit this vulnerability by leveraging SSRF to send unauthorized requests, which may result in network enumeration, data leakage, or further attacks.

Mitigation and Prevention

To prevent exploitation of CVE-2021-20346, immediate steps should be taken to apply official fixes and security patches to vulnerable IBM products. Long-term security practices must also be established.

Immediate Steps to Take

Organizations should apply official fixes provided by IBM and ensure all affected products are updated to the latest secure versions to mitigate the risk of SSRF attacks.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implementing network security measures, access controls, and regular security audits can help prevent SSRF vulnerabilities and enhance the overall security posture.

Patching and Updates

Regularly monitor IBM security advisories and apply necessary patches and updates to ensure that the products are protected against known vulnerabilities and security flaws.