CVE-2002-0721 in SQL Server
Summary
by MITRE
Microsoft SQL Server 7.0 and 2000 installs with weak permissions for extended stored procedures that are associated with helper functions, which could allow unprivileged users, and possibly remote attackers, to run stored procedures with administrator privileges via (1) xp_execresultset, (2) xp_printstatements, or (3) xp_displayparamstmt.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/23/2025
This vulnerability affects Microsoft SQL Server versions 7.0 and 2000 where extended stored procedures are configured with insufficient access controls. The flaw stems from weak permission settings on helper functions that are integral to the database engine's extended stored procedure framework. These helper functions are designed to provide additional functionality beyond standard SQL operations but are exposed with overly permissive access controls that allow unauthorized users to execute them with elevated privileges.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves three specific extended stored procedures that serve as attack vectors: xp_execresultset, xp_printstatements, and xp_displayparamstmt. These procedures are typically designed to support advanced database operations but contain implementation flaws that permit privilege escalation when invoked by unprivileged users. The vulnerability represents a classic case of insufficient privilege checking within database engine components, which falls under CWE-276, specifically inadequate privilege management. Attackers can leverage these procedures to execute arbitrary code with administrator-level privileges, effectively bypassing standard access controls and user authentication mechanisms.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe as it enables both local and potentially remote privilege escalation attacks against SQL Server installations. Unprivileged users who gain access to the database can exploit these helper functions to execute malicious code with system-level privileges, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The vulnerability affects database security models that rely on proper access control enforcement, particularly in environments where database users have elevated permissions or where database administrators fail to properly configure security settings. This weakness creates a persistent backdoor that can be exploited by attackers who may have only basic database access rights.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability include immediate implementation of proper access controls and privilege management for extended stored procedures. Database administrators should review and restrict permissions on helper functions, ensuring that only authorized users and processes can execute these procedures. The recommended approach involves setting appropriate permissions using SQL Server's built-in security mechanisms and potentially disabling unnecessary extended stored procedures entirely. Organizations should also implement regular security audits of database configurations and monitor for unauthorized access attempts. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1078 which covers valid accounts and privilege escalation, and specifically relates to T1068 which covers local privilege escalation. Additionally, this represents a critical configuration vulnerability that should be addressed through proper security hardening practices and adherence to Microsoft's security guidelines for SQL Server deployment.