CVE-2024-38319 Overview
CVE-2024-38319 affects IBM Security SOAR version 51.0.2.0. The vulnerability allows an authenticated user to execute malicious code loaded from a specially crafted script. The flaw is tracked as IBM X-Force ID 294830 and is classified under [CWE-94] Improper Control of Generation of Code (Code Injection).
Successful exploitation grants attackers the ability to run arbitrary code within the SOAR environment. Because SOAR platforms orchestrate incident response workflows across connected security tools, code execution here can compromise integrations, credentials, and downstream systems.
Critical Impact
Authenticated attackers can execute arbitrary code against the SOAR platform, impacting confidentiality, integrity, and availability across orchestrated security operations.
Affected Products
- IBM Security SOAR 51.0.2.0
- Deployments running on Red Hat Linux
- Integrated SOAR playbook and scripting components
Discovery Timeline
- 2024-06-22 - CVE-2024-38319 published to NVD
- 2026-06-17 - Last updated in NVD database
Technical Details for CVE-2024-38319
Vulnerability Analysis
The vulnerability is a Code Injection flaw ([CWE-94]) in IBM Security SOAR 51.0.2.0. IBM Security SOAR provides scripting capabilities that allow analysts to build custom playbooks and automation logic. The platform does not adequately restrict code loaded through a specially crafted script, permitting execution of attacker-supplied logic within the SOAR runtime.
Exploitation requires an authenticated session. Once authenticated, a low-privileged user can supply script content that the platform evaluates during playbook execution or related script-handling operations. The malicious code then runs within the SOAR process context.
Because SOAR platforms typically hold API keys, service credentials, and privileged connectors for endpoint, email, ticketing, and cloud systems, code execution on SOAR provides lateral pivot opportunities across the entire security stack.
Root Cause
The root cause is improper control over dynamically loaded script content. IBM Security SOAR accepts script input from authenticated users and passes it to an execution context without sufficient sandboxing or input validation, allowing attacker-controlled logic to run as if it were legitimate playbook code.
Attack Vector
The attack vector is network-based and requires authenticated access with low privileges. An attacker with valid SOAR credentials submits a crafted script through supported script-handling functionality. When the platform loads and executes the script, the attacker's code runs and can access SOAR data, connectors, and integrated systems.
No verified proof-of-concept code is publicly available. For technical details, consult the IBM Support Advisory #7158261 and IBM X-Force Vulnerability #294830.
Detection Methods for CVE-2024-38319
Indicators of Compromise
- Unexpected script uploads or modifications to SOAR playbook or automation content by non-administrative accounts
- Outbound network connections from the SOAR host to unfamiliar IP addresses or domains
- Anomalous process execution spawned by SOAR service accounts on the underlying Red Hat Linux host
- Unauthorized use of stored SOAR connector credentials against integrated platforms
Detection Strategies
- Audit SOAR script and playbook change logs for modifications by unusual users or at unusual times
- Correlate SOAR authentication events with subsequent script execution and connector activity
- Monitor the Red Hat Linux host running SOAR for child processes spawned outside expected playbook operations
- Baseline normal SOAR outbound traffic and alert on deviations
Monitoring Recommendations
- Forward SOAR application logs and host telemetry to a centralized analytics platform for correlation
- Alert on new or modified custom scripts submitted through the SOAR interface or API
- Track credential and API key usage sourced from SOAR connectors for unusual access patterns
How to Mitigate CVE-2024-38319
Immediate Actions Required
- Apply the patch referenced in the IBM Support Advisory #7158261 to IBM Security SOAR 51.0.2.0 deployments
- Review and reduce the number of accounts with permissions to author or modify SOAR scripts and playbooks
- Rotate SOAR-managed credentials, API keys, and connector secrets if compromise is suspected
- Restrict network access to the SOAR management interface to trusted administrative networks
Patch Information
IBM has published remediation guidance in IBM Support Advisory #7158261. Administrators should upgrade to the fixed version identified by IBM for Security SOAR 51.0.2.0. Additional vulnerability metadata is available at IBM X-Force Vulnerability #294830.
Workarounds
- Enforce least privilege on SOAR user roles and remove script-authoring permissions from accounts that do not require them
- Require multi-factor authentication for all SOAR user accounts to reduce risk of credential-based access
- Isolate the SOAR host at the network layer and log all administrative sessions until the patch is applied
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
