CVE-2004-1774 in Oracle10g
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in the SDO_CODE_SIZE procedure of the MD2 package (MDSYS.MD2.SDO_CODE_SIZE) in Oracle 10g before 10.1.0.2 Patch 2 allows local users to execute arbitrary code via a long LAYER parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/22/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2004-1774 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw within Oracle Database 10g version 10.1.0.1 and earlier releases. This security weakness resides in the SDO_CODE_SIZE procedure of the MD2 package, specifically within the MDSYS.MD2.SDO_CODE_SIZE component of Oracle's spatial data management system. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms that fail to properly constrain the length of the LAYER parameter, creating an exploitable condition where malicious input can overwrite adjacent memory locations.
The technical implementation of this buffer overflow occurs when the SDO_CODE_SIZE procedure processes the LAYER parameter without sufficient bounds checking. This procedural flaw allows attackers to provide an excessively long LAYER parameter value that exceeds the allocated buffer space, resulting in memory corruption. The overflow can potentially overwrite critical program execution data such as return addresses, function pointers, or other control flow information, enabling attackers to redirect program execution to malicious code injected through the vulnerable parameter.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents a significant threat to Oracle database environments as it allows local users with minimal privileges to escalate their access and execute arbitrary code on the target system. The attack vector requires local system access, making it particularly dangerous in environments where privileged accounts are compromised or where attackers can gain foothold through other means. The implications extend beyond simple code execution, as successful exploitation could lead to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, or further network infiltration.
The vulnerability maps to CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter. Organizations should implement immediate patching strategies to address this vulnerability through Oracle's official security patches, specifically targeting the 10.1.0.2 Patch 2 release. Additionally, database administrators should consider implementing privilege separation, monitoring for anomalous LAYER parameter usage, and applying network segmentation controls to limit potential exploitation. The remediation process should include comprehensive testing to ensure that the patch does not introduce compatibility issues with existing applications relying on the affected procedure, while also establishing baseline security configurations that enforce stricter input validation mechanisms for all spatial data processing functions.