Fortinet Discovers IBM ILOG CPLEX Optimization Studio Insecure Library Loading Vulnerability
Summary
Fortinet's FortiGuard Labs has discovered an Insecure Library Loading vulnerability in IBM ILOG CPLEX Optimization Studio.
IBM ILOG CPLEX Optimization Studio uses powerful algorithms to solve Model business issues mathematically. It can produce precise and logical decisions. The mathematical programming technology of CPLEX Optimizer enables decision optimization for improving efficiency, reducing costs and increasing profitability.
IBM ILOG CPLEX Optimization Studio is susceptible to an Insecure Library Loading vulnerability. The issue occurs when the application looks to load a DLL for execution and an attacker provides a malicious DLL to use instead. The application generally follows a specific search path to locate the DLL. The vulnerability can be exploited by a simple file write (or potentially an over-write) which results in a foreign DLL running under the context of the application.
Solutions
Apply the workaround provided by IBM.
Timeline
Fortinet reported the vulnerability to IBM on November 26, 2019.
IBM confirmed the vulnerability and posted an advisory on January 19, 2020.