CVE-2001-0832 in Database Server
Summary
by MITRE
Vulnerability in Oracle 8.0.x through 9.0.1 on Unix allows local users to overwrite arbitrary files, possibly via a symlink attack or incorrect file permissions in (1) the ORACLE_HOME/rdbms/log directory or (2) an alternate directory as specified in the ORACLE_HOME environmental variable, aka the "Oracle File Overwrite Security Vulnerability."
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/07/2017
This vulnerability affects Oracle database versions 8.0.x through 9.0.1 running on unix operating systems and represents a significant security flaw that enables local users to overwrite arbitrary files through improper file handling mechanisms. The vulnerability stems from inadequate security controls in the Oracle installation process, specifically within the directory structure management and file permission handling. Attackers can exploit this weakness by creating symbolic links or manipulating file permissions in critical Oracle directories to gain unauthorized write access to system files. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates at the local user level, meaning that any user with access to the system can potentially exploit this flaw to overwrite files in the system, potentially leading to privilege escalation or system compromise.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the Oracle installation and runtime processes failing to properly validate file paths and permissions when creating or accessing log files in the ORACLE_HOME/rdbms/log directory. When Oracle attempts to write log files, it does not adequately check for the existence of symbolic links or verify that the target directories have appropriate permissions, allowing attackers to manipulate the file creation process. This flaw can be exploited through two primary attack vectors: either by placing malicious symbolic links in the ORACLE_HOME/rdbms/log directory or by manipulating the ORACLE_HOME environment variable to point to an alternate directory where the attacker has more control over file creation. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-527 which specifically addresses the exposure of sensitive information through improper file permissions, and it aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068 which involves local privilege escalation through exploitation of system vulnerabilities.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe as it provides attackers with a mechanism to overwrite critical system files, potentially leading to system instability, data corruption, or complete system compromise. Local users who can access the Oracle installation environment can leverage this vulnerability to overwrite files in system directories, including configuration files, binary executables, or other sensitive data. The attack surface is particularly broad since Oracle installations are common in enterprise environments, and the vulnerability affects multiple versions within the 8.0.x to 9.0.1 range. Organizations running these vulnerable versions face significant risk of unauthorized file modification, which could result in denial of service, data integrity compromise, or the creation of backdoors within the system. The vulnerability also demonstrates poor security practices in software installation and runtime file handling, making it a critical concern for system administrators who must ensure proper file permissions and directory security.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate patch application and proper system hardening measures. Oracle released patches for this vulnerability in subsequent versions, and organizations should upgrade to patched versions immediately to eliminate the risk. System administrators should also implement proper file permission controls on Oracle installation directories, ensuring that the ORACLE_HOME/rdbms/log directory and other Oracle-related directories have appropriate access controls to prevent unauthorized file creation or modification. Additional mitigation measures include disabling unnecessary Oracle services, implementing strict file system permissions, and monitoring for unauthorized file system changes in Oracle-related directories. Security audits should verify that symbolic links are not present in critical Oracle directories and that the ORACLE_HOME environment variable points to secure locations. Network segmentation and access controls should be implemented to limit local access to Oracle installations, and regular security assessments should be conducted to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities in other system components. This vulnerability serves as a reminder of the importance of proper file system security controls and the need for comprehensive security testing during software installation and runtime operations.