CVE-2001-0542 in SQL Server
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflows in Microsoft SQL Server 7.0 and 2000 allow attackers with access to SQL Server to execute arbitrary code through the functions (1) raiserror, (2) formatmessage, or (3) xp_sprintf. NOTE: the C runtime format string vulnerability reported in MS01-060 is identified by CVE-2001-0879.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/30/2024
This vulnerability represents a critical buffer overflow flaw in Microsoft SQL Server versions 7.0 and 2000 that specifically affects three string manipulation functions within the database engine. The vulnerability stems from improper handling of format strings in the runtime library, creating opportunities for attackers to execute arbitrary code when these functions are invoked with untrusted input. The flaw is particularly dangerous because it exists within core database operations that are frequently used by both legitimate applications and malicious actors who have gained access to SQL Server instances. The vulnerability affects the raiserror, formatmessage, and xp_sprintf functions which are integral to SQL Server's error handling and string formatting capabilities, making it a significant threat vector for privilege escalation attacks.
The technical implementation of this buffer overflow occurs when these specific functions process format strings that contain improper input validation or boundary checking. When attackers provide maliciously crafted format strings to these functions, they can overwrite adjacent memory locations in the process heap, potentially leading to code execution at the privilege level of the SQL Server service account. This vulnerability operates at the application level within the database engine rather than at the operating system level, making it particularly challenging to detect and mitigate. The flaw is classified as a format string vulnerability (cwe-134) which is a well-known class of security issues that has been documented in multiple industry standards and security frameworks. The attack vector requires that an attacker already has access to the SQL Server instance, making this a post-compromise exploitation scenario rather than an initial access vulnerability.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it can enable attackers to escalate privileges and potentially gain complete control over the database server. Since SQL Server typically runs with elevated privileges, successful exploitation could allow attackers to execute commands with system-level access, access sensitive data, modify database contents, or even establish persistent backdoors within the network infrastructure. The vulnerability's presence in widely deployed SQL Server versions 7.0 and 2000 makes it particularly concerning, as these versions were commonly used in enterprise environments where database security is paramount. Organizations running these older versions face significant risk exposure, especially those with limited security monitoring capabilities that might not detect the subtle signs of format string exploitation.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate patching of affected SQL Server installations, as Microsoft released security updates specifically addressing this issue in MS01-060. Organizations should also implement network segmentation to limit access to SQL Server instances, enforce strict access controls, and monitor for unusual database activity that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability's classification under CWE-134 and its alignment with ATT&CK techniques for privilege escalation and execution through database systems emphasizes the need for comprehensive security monitoring. Additional defensive measures include input validation for all database functions, regular security assessments, and implementing database activity monitoring solutions that can detect anomalous behavior patterns consistent with format string exploitation attempts. Given the age of the affected versions, organizations should also consider migrating to supported SQL Server versions that have stronger security controls and regular update cycles to prevent similar vulnerabilities from emerging in their database infrastructure.