CVE-2005-0111 in MaxDB
Summary
by MITRE
Stack-based buffer overflow in the websql CGI program in MySQL MaxDB 7.5.00 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a long password parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/05/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2005-0111 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow flaw within the websql CGI component of MySQL MaxDB version 7.5.00. This issue resides in the web-based SQL interface functionality that processes user authentication requests through the CGI interface. The flaw manifests when the system processes an excessively long password parameter, causing the program to write beyond the allocated stack buffer boundaries. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-121, which specifically addresses stack-based buffer overflow conditions where insufficient bounds checking allows attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations. The websql CGI program serves as a web interface for database administration and query execution, making it a prime target for remote exploitation.
The technical mechanism of exploitation involves the attacker sending a specially crafted HTTP request containing an overly long password string to the websql CGI endpoint. When the application processes this parameter without proper input validation or length checking, the stack buffer overflow occurs during the function call execution. The overflow corrupts the stack frame, potentially overwriting the return address of the calling function, which allows attackers to redirect program execution flow. This vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates within a web-based interface, enabling remote code execution without requiring local system access. The attack vector aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190, which describes the exploitation of vulnerabilities in web applications through remote access.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution to encompass complete system compromise. Successful exploitation could enable attackers to gain unauthorized access to the database server, potentially leading to data theft, modification, or destruction. The vulnerability affects the entire MaxDB 7.5.00 installation and could be leveraged to escalate privileges, establish persistent access, or use the compromised system as a launch point for further attacks within the network infrastructure. Organizations relying on this version of MaxDB would be exposed to significant risk, particularly in environments where database servers are accessible from untrusted networks. The vulnerability's remote exploitability eliminates the need for physical access or local network presence, making it especially concerning for enterprise environments with exposed database interfaces.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2005-0111 require immediate action to address the underlying buffer overflow condition. The most effective solution involves upgrading to a patched version of MySQL MaxDB that contains proper input validation and buffer length checking mechanisms. Organizations should implement network segmentation to limit access to the websql CGI interface, using firewalls and access control lists to restrict connections to trusted networks only. Input validation measures should be deployed at multiple layers including web application firewalls, proxy servers, and application-level checks to prevent overly long parameters from reaching the vulnerable code paths. Additionally, security monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual patterns in authentication requests that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper secure coding practices and input sanitization, particularly in web applications handling sensitive authentication data, and aligns with security frameworks emphasizing defense in depth approaches to protect critical database infrastructure.