CVE-2021-20506 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

IBM Jazz Foundation Products are vulnerable to cross-site scripting, allowing users to embed arbitrary JavaScript code in the Web UI. This has the potential to alter functionality, leading to credentials disclosure within trusted sessions.

Understanding CVE-2021-20506

This CVE identifies a cross-site scripting vulnerability in IBM Jazz Foundation Products, impacting various versions of Engineering Lifecycle Optimization, Engineering Workflow Management, Rational Engineering Lifecycle Manager, and Rational Team Concert.

What is CVE-2021-20506?

The vulnerability in IBM Jazz Foundation Products permits users to insert malicious JavaScript code in the Web UI, potentially compromising the system's intended operations and, in worst cases, exposing credentials within secure sessions.

The Impact of CVE-2021-20506

The cross-site scripting flaw can result in unauthorized access to sensitive data, leading to potential credential exposure and manipulation of the affected systems, posing a risk to data confidentiality and integrity.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-20506

This section provides a breakdown of the vulnerability in terms of its description, affected systems and versions, and the exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allows threat actors to inject arbitrary JavaScript code into the Web UI, which can be misused to manipulate the system's behavior and potentially disclose sensitive information stored within that system.

Affected Systems and Versions

IBM Jazz Foundation Products versions 7.0, 7.0.1, 7.0.2, 6.0.2, 6.0.6, and 6.0.6.1 are affected by this cross-site scripting vulnerability, including Engineering Lifecycle Optimization, Engineering Workflow Management, Rational Engineering Lifecycle Manager, and Rational Team Concert.

Exploitation Mechanism

The exploitation of this vulnerability requires a low level of privileges and user interaction, posing a risk to the integrity and confidentiality of the affected systems.

Mitigation and Prevention

Outlined below are the recommended steps to address the CVE-2021-20506 vulnerability and enhance overall security measures.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users are advised to apply the official fixes provided by IBM to mitigate the risk of exploitation. It is crucial to update the affected systems promptly to prevent unauthorized access and data breaches.

Long-Term Security Practices

Employing secure coding practices, conducting regular security assessments, and educating users on potential threats can help bolster the security posture against similar vulnerabilities in the future.

Patching and Updates

Regularly monitor IBM security bulletins and update mechanisms to stay informed about the latest patches and preventive measures released by the vendor.