CVE-2000-0325 in JET
Summary
by MITRE
The Microsoft Jet database engine allows an attacker to execute commands via a database query, aka the "VBA Shell" vulnerability.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/16/2025
The CVE-2000-0325 vulnerability represents a critical security flaw in Microsoft Jet database engine that enables remote code execution through database queries. This vulnerability specifically affects Microsoft Access and other applications that utilize the Jet database engine for data storage and retrieval operations. The flaw stems from improper input validation within the database engine's handling of Visual Basic for Applications (VBA) commands embedded within database queries, creating an avenue for malicious actors to inject and execute arbitrary code on affected systems.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs when the Jet database engine processes database queries containing malicious VBA code within database objects such as forms, reports, or modules. When these database files are opened by vulnerable applications, the engine executes the embedded VBA commands without proper sanitization, allowing attackers to leverage this behavior for command execution. This represents a classic command injection vulnerability where database content is treated as executable code, violating fundamental security principles of input validation and privilege separation. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-78 as "Improper Neutralization of Special Elements used in an OS Command" and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.005 for "Command and Scripting Interpreter: Visual Basic" within the execution phase of the adversary lifecycle.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation to encompass full system compromise when attackers can influence database content or delivery mechanisms. Systems running vulnerable versions of Microsoft Access, Outlook, or other applications that utilize the Jet engine are at risk, particularly when users open maliciously crafted database files. Attackers can exploit this vulnerability through various delivery methods including email attachments, web downloads, or network shares, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where database files are frequently shared and opened by multiple users. The vulnerability affects systems running Windows 95, 98, ME, NT, 2000, and XP, with the attack surface expanding to include any application that leverages the vulnerable Jet engine components.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2000-0325 require a multi-layered approach focusing on both immediate patching and operational security measures. Microsoft released security updates for this vulnerability as part of their regular patching cycle, and organizations should prioritize applying the appropriate security patches to eliminate the risk. Additionally, implementing strict database file access controls, disabling automatic execution of VBA macros in database applications, and employing application whitelisting policies can significantly reduce the attack surface. Network segmentation and email filtering solutions should be configured to prevent the delivery of potentially malicious database files to end-user systems. Organizations should also consider implementing database audit controls and monitoring for suspicious query execution patterns, while conducting regular security assessments to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities in database engine configurations. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of secure coding practices and proper input validation in database systems, reinforcing the need for comprehensive security testing throughout the software development lifecycle.