CVE-2021-20543 : Security Advisory and Response

This article provides an in-depth look at CVE-2021-20543, a vulnerability affecting IBM Jazz Team Server versions 6.0.6, 6.0.6.1, 7.0, 7.0.1, and 7.0.2, allowing for HTML injection attacks.

Understanding CVE-2021-20543

CVE-2021-20543 is a security vulnerability in IBM Jazz Team Server that enables remote attackers to inject malicious HTML code into the application, potentially leading to the execution of arbitrary code within the victim's web browser.

What is CVE-2021-20543?

IBM Jazz Team Server versions 6.0.6, 6.0.6.1, 7.0, 7.0.1, and 7.0.2 are susceptible to HTML injection. This flaw could be exploited by remote attackers to insert and execute malicious HTML content within the security context of the hosting site.

The Impact of CVE-2021-20543

The vulnerability poses a medium severity risk with a CVSS base score of 5.4. Although exploitation currently requires user interaction, successful attacks could compromise the confidentiality and integrity of affected systems.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-20543

The CVSS v3.0 score for CVE-2021-20543 highlights a medium severity issue with low attack complexity and network access vector. The exploit code maturity is unproven, with low privileges required and a requirement for user interaction.

Vulnerability Description

The security flaw in IBM Jazz Team Server allows for unauthorized HTML injection, enabling attackers to execute malicious code within the victim's web browser security context.

Affected Systems and Versions

IBM Jazz Team Server versions 6.0.6, 6.0.6.1, 7.0, 7.0.1, and 7.0.2

Exploitation Mechanism

Remote attackers can exploit this vulnerability by injecting malicious HTML code into the IBM Jazz Team Server application, leveraging the security context of the hosting site for execution.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2021-20543, immediate steps and long-term security practices are crucial.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply the official fix provided by IBM to patch the vulnerability.
Monitor for any signs of unauthorized HTML injection attempts.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update IBM Jazz Team Server to ensure all security patches are applied promptly.
Conduct security assessments and penetration testing to identify and remediate potential vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Keep track of security advisories from IBM and apply patches as soon as they are released to protect against known vulnerabilities.