CVE-2000-0206 in Oracle
Summary
by MITRE
The installation of Oracle 8.1.5.x on Linux follows symlinks and creates the orainstRoot.sh file with world-writeable permissions, which allows local users to gain privileges.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/01/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2000-0206 represents a critical privilege escalation flaw in Oracle Database 8.1.5.x installations on Linux systems. This issue stems from improper file permission handling during the Oracle installation process, creating a persistent security weakness that directly enables local users to elevate their system privileges. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates at the installation phase, meaning the flaw exists before any normal operational security measures can take effect, making it an ideal target for attackers seeking to establish persistent access to systems.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability lies in the Oracle installation script's handling of symbolic links and file permissions. During the installation process, the orainstRoot.sh script is created with world-writable permissions, allowing any local user to modify or replace this critical system file. This permission structure violates fundamental security principles and creates an attack surface where malicious users can inject arbitrary code into the installation process. The vulnerability specifically manifests when Oracle creates the orainstRoot.sh file in a location where local users have write access, typically in directories that are part of the system's default installation paths. This flaw aligns with CWE-732, which describes improper permission assignment for critical system resources, and represents a classic example of insecure file handling that can lead to privilege escalation attacks.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as it provides attackers with a reliable method for gaining root access to affected systems. Once a local user successfully modifies the orainstRoot.sh script, they can execute arbitrary commands with elevated privileges, potentially leading to complete system compromise. This vulnerability is particularly dangerous in multi-user environments where users may have legitimate access to the system but should not possess administrative privileges. The attack vector is straightforward and requires minimal technical expertise, making it attractive to both malicious insiders and external attackers who have gained initial access to the system. The vulnerability's persistence means that even after the initial compromise, the attacker can maintain access through the modified installation script, creating a backdoor that can be exploited repeatedly.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2000-0206 should focus on immediate remediation through Oracle's official patches and updates, which would correct the improper file permission handling during installation. System administrators should also implement additional security measures including strict monitoring of installation directories, regular permission audits, and enforcement of least privilege principles for system users. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper file permission management and secure installation practices, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1068 which covers privilege escalation through local exploits. Organizations should also consider implementing file integrity monitoring solutions to detect unauthorized modifications to critical system files, and ensure that all system updates are applied promptly to address known vulnerabilities. The incident underscores the necessity of secure coding practices and proper permission handling in system installation processes, as it represents a failure in the security design phase that could have been prevented through better adherence to security best practices and proper access control mechanisms.