CVE-2003-0449 in Progress
Summary
by MITRE
Progress Database 9.1 to 9.1D06 trusts user input to find and load libraries using dlopen, which allows local users to gain privileges via (1) a PATH environment variable that points to malicious libraries, as demonstrated using libjutil.so in_proapsv, or (2) the -installdir command line parameter, as demonstrated using librocket_r.so in _dbagent.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/23/2024
This vulnerability exists in Progress Database versions 9.1 through 9.1D06 where the software improperly handles user input during library loading operations. The flaw occurs when the application uses the dlopen system call to dynamically load shared libraries without adequate validation of the input sources. This design oversight creates a path for privilege escalation attacks by allowing local users to manipulate the library loading process through carefully crafted environment variables or command line parameters. The vulnerability specifically targets the PATH environment variable and the -installdir command line option, both of which are used to determine library locations during application execution. When an attacker manipulates these inputs, they can force the database application to load malicious shared libraries from controlled locations rather than legitimate system libraries. This behavior directly violates the principle of least privilege and represents a classic case of insecure library loading practices that can be exploited to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges. The attack vectors demonstrate how an attacker can leverage the application's legitimate need to load dynamic libraries to achieve unauthorized code execution. The specific examples show how libjutil.so in the proapsv component and librocket_r.so in the dbagent component can be used to establish malicious library loading chains. This vulnerability is categorized under CWE-426 as Untrusted Search Path, which specifically addresses the issue of applications using untrusted input to determine library paths without proper validation. The flaw also maps to ATT&CK technique T1068 which describes the use of local privilege escalation techniques through exploitation of system vulnerabilities. The operational impact of this vulnerability is significant as it allows local users to potentially gain elevated privileges, which could lead to complete system compromise if the database service runs with administrative permissions. The attack requires local access to the system but does not require network connectivity, making it particularly dangerous in environments where local user access is not properly restricted. Organizations running affected Progress Database versions should immediately implement mitigations including restricting write access to library directories, implementing proper input validation for environment variables and command line parameters, and considering privilege separation techniques. The vulnerability highlights the critical importance of proper library loading security practices and demonstrates how seemingly innocuous application functionality can become a vector for privilege escalation attacks when input validation is insufficient. System administrators should also consider implementing monitoring for unusual library loading patterns and ensure that all system libraries are properly secured against unauthorized modifications. This vulnerability serves as a reminder of the importance of secure coding practices and the need for comprehensive security testing of all application components that interact with system resources. The affected versions represent a window of opportunity for attackers to exploit this weakness, making prompt remediation essential for maintaining system integrity and protecting against potential unauthorized access.