Information Disclosure via HTTP GET Query in IBM InfoSphere

Executive Summary

This vulnerability in IBM InfoSphere Information Server versions 11.7.0.0 through 11.7.1.6 involves the use of the HTTP GET method to process requests that contain sensitive information in the query string.

Because the sensitive data is included in the URL query string, an attacker can intercept this information using man-in-the-middle techniques, potentially exposing confidential data.

This issue is classified under CWE-598: Use of GET Request Method With Sensitive Query Strings.

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Compliance Impact

The vulnerability in IBM InfoSphere Information Server allows sensitive information to be exposed via the query string in HTTP GET requests, which can be intercepted through man-in-the-middle attacks.

Such exposure of sensitive information could potentially impact compliance with data protection regulations like GDPR and HIPAA, which require safeguarding sensitive data against unauthorized access and disclosure.

However, the provided information does not explicitly discuss compliance implications or how this vulnerability directly affects adherence to these standards.

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Impact Analysis

The vulnerability allows an attacker with network access to intercept sensitive information transmitted in the query string of HTTP GET requests.

The impact is considered low in terms of confidentiality (CVSS score 3.1), with no impact on integrity or availability.

However, if exploited, sensitive data exposure could lead to unauthorized information disclosure, which might affect privacy or security depending on the nature of the data.

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Mitigation Strategies

To mitigate this vulnerability, you should apply the fixes provided in IBM InfoSphere Information Server versions 11.7.1.0, 11.7.1.6, or the 11.7.1.6 Service Pack 2.

No workarounds or alternative mitigations are specified in the security bulletin.

It is also recommended to evaluate the impact of this vulnerability in your specific environment, as the CVSS environmental score may vary.

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Detection Guidance

The vulnerability involves sensitive information being exposed in the query string of HTTP GET requests processed by IBM InfoSphere Information Server versions 11.7.0.0 through 11.7.1.6. Detection would involve monitoring network traffic for HTTP GET requests containing sensitive data in the query string.

To detect this on your network, you can use network traffic analysis tools such as Wireshark or tcpdump to capture HTTP GET requests to the affected server and inspect the query strings for sensitive information.

• Using tcpdump to capture HTTP traffic on port 80 or 443 (if unencrypted): tcpdump -i <interface> -A 'tcp port 80 and (((ip[2:2] - ((ip[0]&0xf)<<2)) - ((tcp[12]&0xf0)>>2)) != 0)'
• Using Wireshark, apply a display filter for HTTP GET requests: http.request.method == "GET" and inspect the query strings for sensitive data.

Note that if HTTPS is used, decrypting traffic is necessary to inspect query strings, which may require access to server keys or use of a proxy.

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