CVE-2005-0684 in MaxDB
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple buffer overflows in the web tool for MySQL MaxDB before 7.5.00.26 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via (1) an HTTP GET request with a long file parameter after a percent ("%") sign or (2) a long Lock-Token string to the WebDAV functionality, which is not properly handled by the getLockTokenHeader function in WDVHandler_CommonUtils.c.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/31/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2005-0684 represents a critical security flaw in MySQL MaxDB's web administration tool that existed prior to version 7.5.00.26. This issue manifests through two distinct buffer overflow conditions that can be exploited by remote attackers to gain arbitrary code execution privileges on affected systems. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and improper memory handling within the web-based administrative interface, specifically targeting the HTTP GET request processing and WebDAV functionality components. These buffer overflows occur when the system processes malformed requests containing excessively long parameter values, creating opportunities for attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations and potentially execute malicious code with the privileges of the web server process.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves two primary attack vectors that exploit different components of the web tool. The first vector targets HTTP GET requests where a maliciously crafted file parameter containing a long string after a percent sign character can trigger a buffer overflow in the web tool's request handling mechanism. The second vector focuses on the WebDAV functionality, where an overly long Lock-Token string can cause buffer overflow within the getLockTokenHeader function located in WDVHandler_CommonUtils.c. Both attack scenarios demonstrate weaknesses in input sanitization and memory management practices, where the software fails to properly validate the length of incoming data before processing it, leading to memory corruption that can be leveraged for code execution.
The operational impact of CVE-2005-0684 extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as successful exploitation can lead to complete system compromise and unauthorized access to database resources. Attackers can leverage these buffer overflows to execute arbitrary commands on the affected server, potentially gaining access to sensitive database information, modifying or deleting data, and establishing persistent access points within the network infrastructure. The vulnerability affects systems running MySQL MaxDB versions prior to 7.5.00.26, making it particularly concerning for organizations that may have legacy installations or delayed patching processes. The remote nature of the attack means that exploitation can occur from any location with network access to the affected web interface, without requiring physical access or prior authentication to the system.
From a cybersecurity perspective, this vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which describes heap-based buffer overflow conditions, and represents a classic example of improper input validation that can lead to arbitrary code execution. The attack patterns employed in this vulnerability are consistent with techniques documented in the ATT&CK framework under the T1059.007 sub-technique for command and script injection, where attackers leverage web application vulnerabilities to execute malicious code. Organizations affected by this vulnerability should prioritize immediate patching of their MySQL MaxDB installations to version 7.5.00.26 or later, as this represents the first official release that addresses these buffer overflow conditions. Additionally, network segmentation, firewall restrictions, and monitoring of web traffic for suspicious patterns should be implemented as temporary mitigations while patches are deployed. The vulnerability underscores the importance of regular security updates and proper input validation practices in preventing remote code execution exploits in web-based database administration tools.