Is CVE-2011-4889 actively exploited?

No active exploitation of CVE-2011-4889 has been confirmed so far. Continue monitoring, as exploit status can change.

Can CVE-2011-4889 be exploited remotely?

Yes. CVE-2011-4889 is exploitable remotely over the network (CVSS attack vector: Network).

What is the CVSS score of CVE-2011-4889?

CVE-2011-4889 has a CVSS score of 9.8 (CRITICAL).

HOME VULNERABILITIESCVE-2011-4889

CRITICAL

CVE-2011-4889

CWE-254Published: February 8, 2018· Updated: Jun 16, 2026

9.8

CVSS v3.1

Official Description

The javax.naming.directory.AttributeInUseException class in the Virtual Member Manager in IBM WebSphere Application Server (WAS) 6.1 before 6.1.0.43, 7.0 before 7.0.0.21, and 8.0 before 8.0.0.2 does not properly update passwords on a configuration using Tivoli Directory Server, which might allow remote attackers to gain access to an application by leveraging knowledge of an old password. IBM X-Force ID: 72581.

NVD Source

Technical Analysis

CVE-2011-4889 can be exploited remotely over the network without requiring physical or adjacent access, significantly expanding the attack surface for threat actors.

The vulnerability requires no privileges and no user interaction, making it a prime target for automated exploitation campaigns and worm-like propagation.

A successful exploit results in complete confidentiality breach (data exposure), full integrity compromise (data manipulation), availability disruption (denial of service), with a CVSS base score of 9.8.