CVE-2021-20389 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

IBM Security Guardium 11.2 stores user credentials in plain clear text, making them accessible to a local user. This vulnerability has a CVSS base score of 5.1, indicating a medium severity issue.

Understanding CVE-2021-20389

This CVE involves IBM Security Guardium version 11.2, where user credentials are stored in an insecure manner, allowing unauthorized access.

What is CVE-2021-20389?

CVE-2021-20389 relates to IBM Security Guardium 11.2, which fails to secure user credentials stored on the system.

The Impact of CVE-2021-20389

This vulnerability poses a risk of unauthorized access to sensitive user credentials by a local user, potentially leading to data breaches and security incidents.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-20389

In this section, we delve into the specific technical aspects of the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

IBM Security Guardium 11.2 suffers from a flaw where user credentials are stored in plain text, enabling easy retrieval by a local user.

Affected Systems and Versions

The vulnerability impacts IBM Security Guardium version 11.2.

Exploitation Mechanism

Local users can exploit this flaw to gain access to sensitive user credentials stored insecurely within IBM Security Guardium.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2021-20389, immediate actions and long-term security practices are crucial.

Immediate Steps to Take

Organizations should consider implementing strong access controls, regular monitoring, and encryption of sensitive data to mitigate risks associated with this vulnerability.

Long-Term Security Practices

Establish a robust security policy, conduct regular security audits, train employees on data protection best practices, and stay informed about security updates.

Patching and Updates

IBM has released an official fix to address this vulnerability. Organizations using IBM Security Guardium 11.2 are advised to apply the necessary patches and updates promptly to secure user credentials properly.