Security Bulletin
Summary
If a Java or JMS client application uses a channel that does not use SSL/TLS, then setting "PasswordProtection=ALWAYS" in a queue manager's qm.ini file does not stop IBM WebSphere MQ sending a password in clear text across a network during the connection.
Applications that do not set the "USE_MQCSP_AUTHENTICATION_PROPERTY" or "USER_AUTHENTICATION_MQCSP" properties to "true" on the connection are potentially vulnerable.
Vulnerability Details
CVEID: CVE-2016-3052
DESCRIPTION: Under non-standard configurations, IBM WebSphere MQ might send password data in clear text over the network. This data could be intercepted using man in the middle techniques.
CVSS Base Score: 5.9
CVSS Temporal Score: See https://exchange.xforce.ibmcloud.com/vulnerabilities/114722 for the current score
CVSS Environmental Score*: Undefined
CVSS Vector: (CVSS:3.0/AV:N/AC:H/PR:N/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:N/A:N)
Affected Products and Versions
IBM MQ V8.0
IBM MQ V8.0.0.5 and previous maintenance levels.
IBM MQ V9 CD
IBM MQ V9.0.1 only
IBM MQ V9 LTS
IBM MQ V9.0.0.0 only
Remediation/Fixes
IBM MQ V8.0
Apply 8.0.0.6 maintenance level.
IBM MQ V9.0.1 CD
Upgrade to 9.0.2
IBM MQ V9 LTS
Apply Fix pack 9.0.0.1
Workarounds and Mitigations
Use SSL/TLS to protect data by specifying a channel cipherspec, and configure client applications to set the "USE_MQCSP_AUTHENTICATION_PROPERTY" (Java client) or "USER_AUTHENTICATION_MQCSP" (JMS client) properties to "true" on the connection.
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Important Note
IBM strongly suggests that all System z customers be subscribed to the System z Security Portal to receive the latest critical System z security and integrity service. If you are not subscribed, see the instructions on the System z Security web site. Security and integrity APARs and associated fixes will be posted to this portal. IBM suggests reviewing the CVSS scores and applying all security or integrity fixes as soon as possible to minimize any potential risk.
References
Change History
20 February 2017: Original version published.
28 February 2017: Clarified affected environments and mitigations.
24 May 2017: Details for 9.0.0.1 added
19 June 2017: HP & Solaris specifics removed
*The CVSS Environment Score is customer environment specific and will ultimately impact the Overall CVSS Score. Customers can evaluate the impact of this vulnerability in their environments by accessing the links in the Reference section of this Security Bulletin.
Disclaimer
Review the IBM security bulletin disclaimer and definitions regarding your responsibilities for assessing potential impact of security vulnerabilities to your environment.
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Document Information
Modified date:
15 June 2018
UID
swg21998660