CVE-2021-29827:IBM InfoSphere Information Server 11.7 is vulnerable to clickjacking attacks (CWE-1021) that could allow attackers to hijack user click actions.

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IBM InfoSphere Information Server 11.7 contains a cross-frame scripting vulnerability that allows remote attackers to conduct clickjacking attacks. By persuading a victim to visit a malicious website, an attacker could exploit this vulnerability to hijack the victim's clicking actions and potentially launch further attacks. The vulnerability occurs because the application does not properly implement frame-busting techniques or X-Frame-Options headers to prevent its content from being embedded in a malicious website.

Overview

This vulnerability (CVE-2021-29827) affects IBM InfoSphere Information Server 11.7 and is classified as CWE-1021 (Improper Restriction of Rendered UI Layers or Frames). The issue allows attackers to create a malicious webpage that embeds the vulnerable application in an invisible iframe. When users interact with seemingly harmless elements on the attacker's page, they are unknowingly clicking on elements in the embedded application, potentially triggering unwanted actions with their privileges. This type of attack, known as clickjacking or UI redressing, can lead to unauthorized actions being performed on behalf of the victim without their knowledge or consent.

Remediation

Organizations using IBM InfoSphere Information Server 11.7 should apply the security updates provided by IBM as detailed in their security bulletin. The recommended remediation steps include:

  1. Update to the patched version of IBM InfoSphere Information Server as specified in the IBM security bulletin.
  2. Until patching is complete, consider implementing additional security controls such as:
    • Web application firewalls configured to detect and block clickjacking attempts
    • User awareness training about clickjacking attacks
    • Browser security extensions that can help detect frame-based attacks

System administrators should also verify that proper X-Frame-Options or Content-Security-Policy headers are configured on all web applications to prevent unauthorized framing.

References

  1. IBM Security Bulletin: https://www.ibm.com/support/pages/security-bulletin-ibm-infosphere-information-server-vulnerable-cross-frame-scripting-exploit-cve-2021-29827
  2. CWE-1021 (Improper Restriction of Rendered UI Layers or Frames): https://cwe.mitre.org/data/definitions/1021.html
  3. OWASP Clickjacking Defense Guide: https://owasp.org/www-community/attacks/Clickjacking_Defense_Cheat_Sheet

Industry ExposureMost to least
This section illustrates the prevalence of a specific Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) across various industries based on customer reports. The ranking displays industries from the most to least affected by this particular vulnerability, offering valuable insight into where this CVE has been most frequently observed. This information can help organizations within these sectors prioritize their security efforts, understand their relative risk exposure compared to their peers, and focus remediation strategies where they are most needed. By understanding the industry-specific impact, organizations can make more informed decisions regarding patching, resource allocation, and overall risk management related to this CVE.

  1. Accommodation & Food Services: Low
    Accommodation & Food Services
  2. Administrative, Support, Waste Management & Remediation Services: Low
    Administrative, Support, Waste Management & Remediation Services
  3. Agriculture, Forestry Fishing & Hunting: Low
    Agriculture, Forestry Fishing & Hunting
  4. Arts, Entertainment & Recreation: Low
    Arts, Entertainment & Recreation
  5. Construction: Low
    Construction
  6. Educational Services: Low
    Educational Services
  7. Finance and Insurance: Low
    Finance and Insurance
  8. Health Care & Social Assistance: Low
    Health Care & Social Assistance
  9. Information: Low
    Information
  10. Management of Companies & Enterprises: Low
    Management of Companies & Enterprises
  11. Manufacturing: Low
    Manufacturing
  12. Mining: Low
    Mining
  13. Other Services (except Public Administration): Low
    Other Services (except Public Administration)
  14. Professional, Scientific, & Technical Services: Low
    Professional, Scientific, & Technical Services
  15. Public Administration: Low
    Public Administration
  16. Real Estate Rental & Leasing: Low
    Real Estate Rental & Leasing
  17. Retail Trade: Low
    Retail Trade
  18. Transportation & Warehousing: Low
    Transportation & Warehousing
  19. Utilities: Low
    Utilities
  20. Wholesale Trade: Low
    Wholesale Trade

Focus on What Matters

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  2. Identify True Risk.
  3. Proactively Mitigate Threats.

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