CVE-2003-1447: Weak Encryption
IBM WebSphere Advanced Server Edition 4.0.4 uses a weak encryption algorithm (XOR and base64 encoding), which allows local users to decrypt passwords when the configuration file is exported to XML.
Affected Software
Remediation
Recommended actions to resolve this vulnerability, in priority order.
- Compensating control
Do not export configuration to XML from IBM WebSphere Advanced Server Edition 4.0.4 or IBM WebSphere Application Server Feature Pack for Web Services. If an XML export is necessary, store exported XML files in a protected location with restrictive filesystem permissions (owner/admin only), remove exported files immediately after use, and ensure only trusted administrators can access them.
- Compensating control
Harden host OS access for servers running IBM WebSphere Advanced Server Edition 4.0.4 / IBM WebSphere Application Server Feature Pack for Web Services: remove or disable unprivileged local accounts that do not require access, and apply strict OS-level ACLs to WebSphere configuration directories and files so local non-administrative users cannot read exported or stored configuration files.
- Operational
Rotate any credentials (passwords, keys) stored in or exported to XML from IBM WebSphere Advanced Server Edition 4.0.4 or the WebSphere Application Server Feature Pack for Web Services that may have been exposed, and update configurations to use the new credentials.
Event History
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the severity of CVE-2003-1447?
CVE-2003-1447 is classified as a moderate severity vulnerability due to the weak encryption used for passwords.
How do I fix CVE-2003-1447?
To fix CVE-2003-1447, upgrade to a version of IBM WebSphere that implements stronger encryption methods for password storage.
What type of vulnerability is CVE-2003-1447?
CVE-2003-1447 is a cryptographic weakness vulnerability that allows local users to decrypt sensitive data.
What software is affected by CVE-2003-1447?
CVE-2003-1447 affects IBM WebSphere Application Server version 4.0.4 Advanced Server Edition.
Who can exploit CVE-2003-1447?
Local users with access to the exported configuration file can exploit CVE-2003-1447 to decrypt passwords.