CVE-2003-0498 in Caché Database
Summary
by MITRE
Caché Database 5.x installs the /cachesys/csp directory with insecure permissions, which allows local users to execute arbitrary code by adding server-side scripts that are executed with root privileges.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/03/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2003-0498 affects the Caché Database version 5.x and represents a critical privilege escalation flaw stemming from improper directory permissions. This issue manifests through the insecure configuration of the /cachesys/csp directory which is installed with permissions that permit unauthorized local users to place malicious server-side scripts within this location. The flaw directly violates fundamental security principles of least privilege and proper access control enforcement.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits the directory permission model where the /cachesys/csp path is configured with overly permissive access controls. When local users can write to this directory, they can inject malicious scripts that will be executed with the elevated privileges of the Caché Database service account, typically running with root or administrative privileges on Unix-like systems. This creates a direct pathway for privilege escalation attacks where unprivileged local users can gain administrative control over the database system. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-276 as "Incorrect Access Control" and specifically relates to improper permissions on critical system directories.
The operational impact of CVE-2003-0498 is severe as it enables local privilege escalation attacks that can lead to complete system compromise. An attacker who gains local access to a system running Caché Database 5.x can leverage this vulnerability to execute arbitrary code with root privileges, potentially allowing them to install backdoors, modify system files, access sensitive data, or establish persistent access. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it requires minimal privileges to exploit and provides maximum system access upon successful exploitation, making it a prime target for both malicious insiders and external attackers who have gained initial access to the system.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability must address the root cause of insecure directory permissions. System administrators should immediately correct the permissions on the /cachesys/csp directory to restrict write access to only authorized system accounts. The recommended approach involves implementing proper access control lists that limit directory modifications to the database service user and system administrators only. Additionally, organizations should implement regular security audits to verify proper permission settings on critical system directories. The remediation process should include updating to newer versions of Caché Database where this issue has been properly addressed, as well as implementing monitoring solutions to detect unauthorized modifications to system directories. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068 which covers "Local Privilege Escalation" and demonstrates how improper system permissions can create pathways for attackers to escalate their privileges within a compromised system.