CVE-2003-0232 in SQL Server
Summary
by MITRE
Microsoft SQL Server 7, 2000, and MSDE allows local users to execute arbitrary code via a certain request to the Local Procedure Calls (LPC) port that leads to a buffer overflow.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/31/2024
This vulnerability exists in Microsoft SQL Server versions 7.0, 2000, and MSDE where a buffer overflow condition can be triggered through a malicious request sent to the Local Procedure Calls LPC port. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation within the LPC communication mechanism that handles inter-process communication between SQL Server components and client applications. When a specially crafted request is sent to the LPC port, it can overwrite adjacent memory locations in the SQL Server process, potentially allowing a local attacker to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the SQL Server service account. The vulnerability specifically affects the way the system processes incoming LPC messages, where the buffer allocated for message handling does not properly validate the length of incoming data, creating an exploitable condition that can be leveraged for privilege escalation and code execution. This issue represents a classic buffer overflow vulnerability that falls under CWE-121, which describes the condition where a program writes data past the end of a fixed-length buffer, and it aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068 which covers the exploitation of remote services for privilege escalation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is significant as it provides local attackers with the ability to execute arbitrary code on systems running affected SQL Server versions, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The attack vector requires local access to the system, meaning that an attacker must already have some level of access to the machine before exploiting this vulnerability, but once exploited, the consequences can be severe as the attacker can execute code with the elevated privileges of the SQL Server service account. This could result in unauthorized data access, data modification, system compromise, and potential lateral movement within a network environment where SQL Server is deployed. The vulnerability affects systems where SQL Server is running with elevated privileges, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where database servers often operate with administrative rights. Organizations with multiple SQL Server instances across their infrastructure face heightened risk, as exploitation of this vulnerability in any single instance could provide a foothold for broader network infiltration.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability include immediate application of Microsoft security patches and updates that address the buffer overflow condition in the LPC handling mechanism. System administrators should ensure that all SQL Server installations are updated to the latest service packs and security updates released by Microsoft, as these patches contain fixes for the specific buffer overflow vulnerability. Additionally, implementing network segmentation and access controls can limit the potential impact of exploitation by restricting local access to SQL Server systems. The principle of least privilege should be enforced by running SQL Server services with minimal required permissions rather than administrative privileges, reducing the potential damage from successful exploitation. Network monitoring and intrusion detection systems should be configured to detect unusual LPC port activity and potential exploitation attempts. Organizations should also consider implementing application whitelisting policies to restrict execution of unauthorized code, and regular security assessments should be conducted to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities in other system components. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and memory management practices in system security, and organizations should review their code and system configurations to prevent similar issues in other applications and services.