CVE-2021-20493 : Security Advisory and Response

IBM Cognos Analytics versions 11.1.7 and 11.2.0 are susceptible to a cross-site scripting vulnerability. This flaw enables threat actors to insert malicious JavaScript code into the Web UI, potentially compromising the integrity of the system and leading to credential exposure within trusted sessions. The CVE was made public on December 2, 2021, and has a CVSS base score of 6.1, indicating a medium severity level.

Understanding CVE-2021-20493

This section delves into the impact, technical details, and mitigation strategies related to the IBM Cognos Analytics cross-site scripting vulnerability.

What is CVE-2021-20493?

CVE-2021-20493 highlights a security loophole in IBM Cognos Analytics versions 11.1.7 and 11.2.0 that allows attackers to inject unauthorized JavaScript code, potentially leading to sensitive data exposure and system manipulation.

The Impact of CVE-2021-20493

The vulnerability can be exploited by threat actors to execute arbitrary code within the Web UI, posing a significant risk of credentials disclosure and system compromise. This could result in severe data breaches and privacy violations.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-20493

Exploring the vulnerability specifics in-depth.

Vulnerability Description

The flaw in IBM Cognos Analytics versions 11.1.7 and 11.2.0 permits attackers to embed malicious JavaScript code into the Web UI, enabling the manipulation of intended functionality and potentially compromising data confidentiality.

Affected Systems and Versions

IBM Cognos Analytics versions 11.1.7 and 11.2.0 are confirmed to be impacted by this vulnerability, leaving systems running these versions at risk of exploitation.

Exploitation Mechanism

Threat actors interact with the vulnerable web application by injecting specially crafted JavaScript code, thereby bypassing security mechanisms and gaining unauthorized access to sensitive data.

Mitigation and Prevention

Best practices to address and prevent the CVE-2021-20493 vulnerability.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users are advised to apply official fixes provided by IBM to mitigate the risk of exploitation. Additionally, restricting user interaction and implementing security patches are crucial steps to enhance system security.

Long-Term Security Practices

Developing secure coding practices, conducting regular security assessments, and ensuring timely software updates can safeguard the system against potential cross-site scripting attacks.

Patching and Updates

Organizations should prioritize the installation of security patches and updates released by IBM for IBM Cognos Analytics to address the identified vulnerability and enhance system resilience.