A newly discovered vulnerability in IBM Robotic Process Automation (RPA) has raised concerns over potential data breaches due to weaknesses in the cryptographic implementation of the RSA algorithm. Tracked as CVE-2024-51456, the flaw could allow remote attackers to exploit the absence of Optimal Asymmetric Encryption Padding (OAEP) and access sensitive data processed by the affected software. IBM has acknowledged the issue and released a security bulletin outlining both the details of the vulnerability and available remediation measures to address the risk.
The vulnerability occurs because the RSA algorithm is used insecurely in IBM RPA versions 21.0.0 to 21.0.7.19 and 23.0.0 to 23.0.19, with the risk of remote attackers executing a crypto-analytic attack. This could lead to the interception or retrieval of sensitive data, putting organizations using affected IBM RPA deployments at significant risk. The vulnerability has been assigned a moderate CVSS Base Score of 5.9, and it primarily affects confidentiality, without impacting data integrity or availability.
IBM has provided a patch to mitigate the issue:
IBM has provided a patch to mitigate the issue, recommending users update their systems to version 23.0.20 or later to eliminate the risks associated with CVE-2024-51456. For those using versions between 23.0.0 and 23.0.19, IBM advises downloading the updated release and following its remediation steps. Meanwhile, users still running older versions, specifically between 21.0.0 and 21.0.7.19, can temporarily mitigate the flaw by applying IBM’s suggested temporary measures until an upgrade can be completed.
The security flaw serves as a reminder of the importance of keeping automation systems up to date and the need for organizations to follow recommended security practices. Promptly applying the updates and fixes provided by IBM is essential to protect sensitive information and maintain the integrity of automation workflows. Organizations are strongly encouraged to act quickly and upgrade to the secure versions to prevent potential attacks.
