CVE-2001-1089 in nss_postgresql
Summary
by MITRE
libnss-pgsql in nss-pgsql 0.9.0 and earlier allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL queries by inserting SQL code into an HTTP request.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/04/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2001-1089 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the libnss-pgsql library component of the nss-pgsql package version 0.9.0 and earlier. This issue resides in the Name Service Switch functionality that enables applications to resolve user and group information from various data sources including PostgreSQL databases. The vulnerability occurs when the library fails to properly sanitize user input received through HTTP requests before incorporating it into SQL query constructions. This design flaw creates an avenue for malicious actors to inject arbitrary SQL code directly into the database query execution pipeline, effectively bypassing normal authentication and authorization mechanisms.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and parameter sanitization within the nss-pgsql library's HTTP request processing module. When applications utilizing this library receive user credentials or authentication requests through HTTP interfaces, the library processes these inputs without proper escaping or parameterization of SQL query components. This weakness allows attackers to manipulate the SQL execution context by embedding malicious SQL statements within the HTTP request parameters. The vulnerability specifically affects the Name Service Switch mechanism which is responsible for translating user and group names into their corresponding identifiers and attributes stored in backend databases. According to CWE-89, this represents a classic SQL injection vulnerability where untrusted data flows directly into SQL command construction without proper sanitization, creating a direct path for arbitrary code execution and data manipulation.
The operational impact of CVE-2001-1089 extends beyond simple data theft to encompass complete system compromise and unauthorized access to sensitive user information. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to execute unauthorized database queries that may include data extraction, modification, or deletion operations. The attack surface is particularly concerning because the affected library is commonly used in authentication systems where it serves as a bridge between application-level user management and backend database storage. Successful exploitation could result in unauthorized access to user accounts, modification of user permissions, and potential privilege escalation within the system. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1213.002 which describes the exploitation of credential access mechanisms through database injection attacks, potentially allowing attackers to gain persistent access to systems that rely on PostgreSQL-based user authentication.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patching of the affected nss-pgsql library to version 0.9.1 or later, which includes proper input sanitization and parameterized query construction. Organizations should implement comprehensive input validation at all entry points where user data is processed, ensuring that all external inputs undergo proper escaping before being incorporated into SQL queries. Network segmentation and firewall rules should be configured to limit access to systems utilizing this library, particularly those handling sensitive authentication data. Additionally, implementing database query logging and monitoring can help detect anomalous SQL execution patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of input sanitization and parameterized queries in preventing injection attacks, aligning with security best practices outlined in the OWASP Top Ten and NIST Special Publication 800-171 for secure software development practices.