IBM DataStage Bug Exposes Database Credentials in Plain Tex

IBM DataStage Bug Exposes Database Credentials in Plain Tex

A recently disclosed vulnerability in IBM InfoSphere DataStage, tracked as CVE-2025-1499, has raised concerns across the enterprise data management sector.

The flaw centers on the cleartext storage of sensitive credential information, potentially exposing database authentication details to authenticated users.

Below, we break down the technical aspects, impact, and available remediation for this issue.

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ClearText Storage Threat:

The vulnerability (CWE-312: Cleartext Storage of Sensitive Information) affects IBM InfoSphere Information Server version 11.7, including its DataStage component.

According to IBM’s security bulletin, credential information required for database authentication is stored in a cleartext parameter file.

This file can be accessed and viewed by any authenticated user on the system, creating a significant risk of credential disclosure and unauthorized database access.

Technical Breakdown

  • CVE ID: CVE-2025-1499
  • Weakness: CWE-312 (Cleartext Storage of Sensitive Information)
  • CVSS Base Score: 6.5 (Moderate Severity)
  • CVSS Vector: (CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:N/A:N)
  • Affected Product: IBM InfoSphere Information Server
  • Affected Version: 11.7
  • Attack Vector: Network (AV:N)
  • Privileges Required: Low (PR:L)
  • Impact: High confidentiality risk; no impact on integrity or availability.

A simplified code snippet illustrating the risk:

text# Example of cleartext credentials in a parameter file
DB_USER=mydbuser
DB_PASSWORD=mysecretpassword

Such storage practices violate secure coding guidelines and can be exploited if the parameter file is accessed by unauthorized personnel.

IBM has identified the following versions as affected and provided remediation steps.

There are currently no workarounds or mitigations beyond applying the recommended patches:

Product Version APAR Remediation Steps
InfoSphere Information Server 11.7 DT423714 Apply InfoSphere Information Server 11.7.1.0 or 11.7.1.6, or apply DataStage patch
InfoSphere Information Server on Cloud 11.7 DT423714 Apply InfoSphere Information Server 11.7.1.0 or 11.7.1.6, or apply DataStage patch

Administrators are urged to update their systems as soon as possible to prevent credential exposure.

Security Context and Best Practices

This vulnerability underscores the importance of secure credential management.

Storing authentication details in cleartext exposes organizations to insider threats and lateral movement within networks.

The Common Vulnerability Scoring System (CVSS) score of 6.5 reflects a moderate risk, primarily due to the high impact on data confidentiality and the ease with which an authenticated user could exploit the flaw.

IBM recommends that all customers using affected versions subscribe to security notifications and apply the latest patches immediately.

No temporary workarounds are available, making prompt patching essential.

CVE-2025-1499 is a clear reminder that improper storage of sensitive information can have far-reaching security implications.

Organizations using IBM InfoSphere DataStage 11.7 should prioritize remediation to safeguard their database credentials and maintain regulatory compliance.

For further details and updates, refer to IBM’s official security bulletin and subscribe to ongoing notifications to stay informed of future vulnerabilities.

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