CVE-2002-0154 in SQL Server
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflows in extended stored procedures for Microsoft SQL Server 7.0 and 2000 allow remote attackers to cause a denial of service or execute arbitrary code via a database query with certain long arguments.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/30/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2002-0154 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw affecting Microsoft SQL Server versions 7.0 and 2000. This vulnerability resides within the extended stored procedures component of the database management system, specifically targeting the handling of input arguments in database queries. The flaw manifests when maliciously crafted database queries containing excessively long arguments are processed by the affected SQL Server instances, creating conditions that can lead to either system instability or unauthorized code execution.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and buffer management within the extended stored procedures framework. When SQL Server processes database queries with arguments exceeding predetermined buffer limits, the system fails to properly handle the overflow conditions, leading to memory corruption that can be exploited by remote attackers. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-121 category of buffer overflow conditions, specifically representing a classic stack-based buffer overflow that occurs when data exceeds the allocated memory space. The attack vector operates over network connections to the SQL Server, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where database servers are accessible from external networks.
The operational impact of CVE-2002-0154 extends beyond simple denial of service scenarios to encompass full system compromise capabilities. Remote attackers can leverage this vulnerability to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the SQL Server service account, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The vulnerability's severity is amplified by the fact that SQL Server instances often run with elevated privileges, providing attackers with direct access to underlying operating system resources. This makes the vulnerability particularly attractive to attackers who may seek to establish persistent access to enterprise networks through database servers that serve as critical infrastructure components. The attack can be executed without requiring authentication to the database, making it especially dangerous in environments where SQL Server instances are exposed to untrusted networks.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2002-0154 should prioritize immediate patch application from Microsoft, as the vendor released security updates specifically addressing this vulnerability. Organizations should implement network segmentation to limit access to SQL Server instances, ensuring that database servers are not directly exposed to untrusted networks. Additional protective measures include disabling unnecessary extended stored procedures, implementing strict input validation mechanisms, and monitoring database query execution for anomalous argument lengths. From an operational security perspective, this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.002 for command and scripting interpreter, as attackers can use the compromised SQL Server to execute arbitrary commands on the underlying system. The vulnerability also maps to ATT&CK technique T1106 for execution through command shell, as successful exploitation can lead to command execution capabilities. Security teams should also consider implementing database activity monitoring solutions to detect potential exploitation attempts and maintain comprehensive audit logs of database access patterns to facilitate incident response activities.