CVE-2003-0230 in SQL Server
Summary
by MITRE
Microsoft SQL Server 7, 2000, and MSDE allows local users to gain privileges by hijacking a named pipe during the authentication of another user, aka the "Named Pipe Hijacking" vulnerability.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/31/2024
The CVE-2003-0230 vulnerability represents a critical privilege escalation flaw in Microsoft SQL Server versions 7.0, 2000, and MSDE that exploits named pipe authentication mechanisms. This vulnerability specifically targets the authentication process where SQL Server creates named pipes for communication between client applications and database services. The flaw occurs when the system fails to properly validate the identity of processes attempting to access these named pipes during authentication sequences, creating an opportunity for malicious local users to intercept and manipulate the authentication flow.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient access control checks within the named pipe creation and handling routines. When a legitimate user attempts to authenticate to SQL Server through a named pipe, the system creates a temporary named pipe that accepts connections from the client application. However, the vulnerability allows a local attacker to create a malicious named pipe with the same name before the legitimate authentication process completes, effectively hijacking the communication channel. This attack vector operates under the assumption that the SQL Server service runs with elevated privileges, typically as the SYSTEM account or a domain administrator, making successful exploitation particularly dangerous.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation to encompass potential data compromise and system infiltration. Local attackers who successfully exploit this vulnerability can gain elevated system privileges and potentially access all data stored within the SQL Server instance. This includes sensitive database contents, user credentials, and system information that may be accessible through the database service. The attack requires local system access but does not need network connectivity, making it particularly concerning for environments where local access controls are insufficient or where attackers have already established a foothold on the system.
From a cybersecurity perspective, this vulnerability aligns with CWE-284, which addresses improper access control in software systems, and maps to ATT&CK technique T1068, which covers "Exploitation for Privilege Escalation." The vulnerability also demonstrates characteristics of privilege escalation through process manipulation and authentication bypass mechanisms. Organizations affected by this vulnerability face significant risk as the attack can be executed without network exposure, making it difficult to detect through traditional network monitoring systems. The exploitation typically requires minimal privileges initially but can lead to complete system compromise when successful.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2003-0230 include immediate patch deployment from Microsoft, which addresses the named pipe authentication flaw through proper access control validation. System administrators should also implement strict local access controls, disable unnecessary SQL Server services, and monitor for suspicious named pipe activity. Network segmentation and privilege separation can help limit the potential impact if exploitation occurs. Additionally, implementing proper auditing and monitoring of SQL Server authentication events can aid in detecting unauthorized pipe access attempts. Organizations should also consider disabling named pipe authentication entirely if it is not required for their operational environment, as this eliminates the attack surface entirely while maintaining database functionality through alternative protocols such as TCP/IP connections.