CVE-2003-1052 in DB2 Universal Database
Summary
by MITRE
IBM DB2 7.1 and 8.1 allow the bin user to gain root privileges by modifying the shared libraries that are used in setuid root programs.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/24/2025
The vulnerability described in CVE-2003-1052 represents a critical privilege escalation flaw in IBM DB2 database software versions 7.1 and 8.1. This security issue stems from inadequate permission controls within the database installation process, specifically affecting the bin user account that typically operates the database services. The flaw allows a malicious user with access to the bin account to manipulate shared library files that are loaded by setuid root programs, thereby enabling unauthorized elevation of privileges to the root level.
This vulnerability operates through a classic shared library hijacking attack vector where the bin user can modify or replace dynamic shared objects that are loaded by setuid programs during execution. When these programs run with elevated privileges, any modifications to their shared libraries can be exploited to inject malicious code that executes with root permissions. The issue is particularly severe because it directly undermines the principle of least privilege and the security model that protects critical system components through proper access controls.
From a technical perspective, this vulnerability aligns with CWE-426, which describes the weakness of untrusted search paths, and represents a significant deviation from proper system security practices. The flaw enables what is known as a privilege escalation attack, specifically categorized under the MITRE ATT&CK framework as privilege escalation through hijacking of dynamic link libraries. The attack requires minimal user privileges initially but results in complete system compromise, making it particularly dangerous in environments where database administrators might have access to the bin user account.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as it can lead to complete system takeover and data compromise. An attacker who gains access to the bin user account can modify critical system components, install backdoors, or extract sensitive information from the database environment. This vulnerability affects organizations running IBM DB2 in production environments where proper security hardening has not been implemented, potentially exposing sensitive corporate data and system integrity to unauthorized access.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including proper file system permissions for shared libraries, regular security audits of database installations, and ensuring that setuid programs are properly configured with restricted permissions. System administrators should also consider implementing additional monitoring and access controls to detect unauthorized modifications to critical system files. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of maintaining strict security boundaries between different user accounts and implementing proper privilege separation in database environments. Regular patching and updates of IBM DB2 installations remain essential to prevent exploitation of known vulnerabilities like CVE-2003-1052.