CVE-2002-0561 in Oracle9i
Summary
by MITRE
The default configuration of the PL/SQL Gateway web administration interface in Oracle 9i Application Server 1.0.2.x uses null authentication, which allows remote attackers to gain privileges and modify DAD settings.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/16/2025
The vulnerability described in CVE-2002-0561 represents a critical security flaw in Oracle 9i Application Server version 1.0.2.x that affects the PL/SQL Gateway web administration interface. This issue stems from the default configuration where the administrative interface lacks proper authentication mechanisms, creating an inherent security weakness that can be exploited by remote attackers. The PL/SQL Gateway serves as a bridge between web applications and oracle databases, making it a prime target for attackers seeking unauthorized access to database administration functions.
The technical flaw manifests through the use of null authentication, which means that the administrative interface accepts connections without requiring any valid credentials or authentication tokens. This configuration violates fundamental security principles and creates an open pathway for malicious actors to access sensitive administrative functions. The vulnerability specifically impacts the Data Access Descriptor (DAD) settings, which control how database connections are managed and accessed through the web interface. When attackers can modify these DAD settings, they gain the ability to alter database access parameters, potentially allowing them to escalate privileges or gain unauthorized access to underlying database resources.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized access, as it provides attackers with the capability to modify critical database configuration parameters. This can result in data exposure, privilege escalation, and potential database corruption or manipulation. The remote nature of the attack means that adversaries do not need physical access to the system or local network connectivity, making the vulnerability particularly dangerous in networked environments. Attackers can exploit this weakness to gain persistent access to database administration functions, potentially leading to complete system compromise and data breaches.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability should implement immediate mitigations including disabling the PL/SQL Gateway administrative interface when not actively needed, configuring strong authentication mechanisms, and applying available patches from Oracle. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-287 which addresses improper authentication issues, and relates to ATT&CK technique T1078 for valid accounts and T1046 for network service scanning. Security administrators should also consider implementing network segmentation, access control lists, and monitoring for unauthorized access attempts to the affected interface. Regular security assessments and configuration reviews are essential to prevent similar vulnerabilities from persisting in the system architecture.