CVE-2004-1338 in Oracle9i
Summary
by MITRE
The triggers in Oracle 9i and 10g allow local users to gain privileges by using a sequence of partially privileged actions: using CCBKAPPLROWTRIG or EXEC_CBK_FN_DML to add arbitrary functions to the SDO_CMT_DBK_FN_TABLE and SDO_CMT_CBK_DML_TABLE, then performing a DELETE on the SDO_TXN_IDX_INSERTS table, which causes the SDO_CMT_CBK_TRIG trigger to execute the user-supplied functions.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/11/2019
The vulnerability described in CVE-2004-1338 represents a sophisticated privilege escalation flaw within Oracle Database versions 9i and 10g that leverages trigger mechanisms to enable local users to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges. This vulnerability operates through a carefully orchestrated sequence of actions that exploits weaknesses in the database's callback and trigger system, specifically targeting the spatial data management components. The flaw is particularly concerning because it allows a local attacker to bypass normal access controls and escalate their privileges without requiring remote network access or complex exploitation techniques.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability centers on Oracle's Spatial Data Option (SDO) callback mechanisms and trigger infrastructure. Attackers can utilize the CCBKAPPLROWTRIG or EXEC_CBK_FN_DML procedures to inject malicious functions into the SDO_CMT_DBK_FN_TABLE and SDO_CMT_CBK_DML_TABLE system tables. These tables serve as repositories for callback functions that are executed during specific database operations. Once the malicious functions are stored in these tables, the attacker can trigger their execution by performing a DELETE operation on the SDO_TXN_IDX_INSERTS table, which activates the SDO_CMT_CBK_TRIG trigger. This trigger mechanism then executes the user-supplied functions with the privileges of the database user, potentially allowing for complete system compromise.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation to encompass potential data corruption, unauthorized data access, and complete system compromise. The vulnerability affects database installations where Oracle Spatial features are enabled, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where spatial data processing is common. The attack requires local access to the database system, which means that an attacker must already have some level of access to the database server, but once achieved, the privilege escalation can be used to access sensitive data, modify database structures, or even execute operating system commands. The vulnerability's impact is classified under CWE-269 Improper Privilege Management, which addresses issues where the system does not properly enforce access controls on resources.
Security professionals should implement multiple layers of defense to mitigate this vulnerability. The primary mitigation involves restricting access to the vulnerable procedures and tables through proper privilege management, ensuring that only authorized database administrators can execute the CCBKAPPLROWTRIG and EXEC_CBK_FN_DML procedures. Database administrators should also implement the principle of least privilege, limiting the permissions granted to database users and applications. Additionally, monitoring and logging of database activities related to these specific procedures should be enabled to detect potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068, which covers privilege escalation through local exploits, and represents a classic example of how database-specific callback mechanisms can be weaponized for unauthorized access. Organizations should also consider implementing database activity monitoring solutions that can detect anomalous patterns in database table modifications and trigger executions, providing early warning capabilities for potential exploitation attempts.