CVE-2002-1981 in SQL Server
Summary
by MITRE
Microsoft SQL Server 2000 through SQL Server 2000 SP2 allows the "public" role to execute the (1) sp_MSSetServerProperties or (2) sp_MSsetalertinfo stored procedures, which allows attackers to modify configuration including SQL server startup and alert settings.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/31/2025
This vulnerability exists in Microsoft SQL Server 2000 through SQL Server 2000 Service Pack 2 and represents a significant privilege escalation issue that directly impacts database security configurations. The flaw allows users assigned to the public role to execute two critical stored procedures: sp_MSSetServerProperties and sp_MSsetalertinfo. These procedures are designed for administrative configuration management but are improperly accessible to unprivileged users, creating a serious security risk that violates the principle of least privilege. The vulnerability falls under CWE-269, which addresses improper privilege management, and specifically relates to CWE-787, concerning out-of-bounds write operations that can occur when these procedures manipulate server configuration parameters.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability enables attackers to modify critical SQL Server startup parameters and alert configurations, potentially allowing them to disable security monitoring, alter server behavior, or even gain elevated system access. When an attacker executes sp_MSSetServerProperties, they can modify server properties that control how SQL Server operates, including startup parameters that might affect service behavior or security settings. The sp_MSsetalertinfo procedure allows modification of alert configurations, which could disable important security notifications or redirect them to attacker-controlled systems. These capabilities directly support ATT&CK technique T1059.002 for command and scripting interpreter and T1566 for credential access through service configuration manipulation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as it provides attackers with the ability to fundamentally alter SQL Server security posture. Attackers can disable security alerts, modify startup parameters to execute malicious code during server startup, or manipulate configuration settings that could lead to data exfiltration or system compromise. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it affects the default SQL Server installation and does not require special privileges to exploit, making it an attractive target for attackers seeking to establish persistent access or disrupt services. Organizations running SQL Server 2000 without proper patching are vulnerable to attacks that could lead to complete system compromise, especially when combined with other exploitation techniques that leverage the server's administrative capabilities.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability include immediate patching of affected SQL Server installations to Service Pack 3 or higher, where Microsoft addressed this specific privilege escalation issue. Administrators should also implement proper access controls by reviewing and restricting permissions for the public role, ensuring that only authorized users have access to administrative stored procedures. Network segmentation and firewall rules should be implemented to limit access to SQL Server instances from untrusted networks. Additionally, organizations should monitor for unauthorized changes to server configurations and implement proper auditing of SQL Server administrative activities. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of maintaining up-to-date security patches and proper privilege management in database environments, as it represents a fundamental flaw in SQL Server's access control mechanisms that could enable attackers to bypass multiple layers of security protection.