CVE-2006-1868 in Database Server
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in the Advanced Replication component in Oracle Database Server 10.1.0.4 allows database users to execute arbitrary code via the VERIFY_LOG procedure of the DBMS_SNAPSHOT_UTL package, aka Vuln# DB03.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/20/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2006-1868 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw within Oracle Database Server version 10.1.0.4, specifically affecting the Advanced Replication component. This issue resides in the DBMS_SNAPSHOT_UTL package where the VERIFY_LOG procedure fails to properly validate input parameters, creating an exploitable condition that could allow malicious actors to execute arbitrary code on the target system. The vulnerability is particularly concerning as it operates at the database level, providing attackers with potential access to sensitive data and system resources.
The technical implementation of this buffer overflow stems from inadequate input validation within the VERIFY_LOG procedure, which processes log information during snapshot replication operations. When database users pass malformed or excessively long input parameters to this procedure, the system fails to perform proper bounds checking, resulting in memory corruption that can be leveraged to overwrite critical memory locations. This flaw aligns with CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions where insufficient bounds checking allows attackers to write beyond allocated memory regions. The vulnerability essentially creates a pathway for attackers to manipulate the program execution flow and inject malicious code.
The operational impact of CVE-2006-1868 extends beyond simple code execution, as successful exploitation could enable attackers to gain elevated privileges within the database environment. Database administrators and users with appropriate permissions can potentially leverage this vulnerability to execute arbitrary commands with the privileges of the database service account, which often possesses extensive system access rights. This could lead to data exfiltration, unauthorized database modifications, or even complete system compromise depending on the underlying operating system permissions. The vulnerability affects the integrity and confidentiality of database operations, potentially exposing sensitive enterprise data to unauthorized access and manipulation.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should include immediate application of Oracle's security patches and updates, as the company released specific fixes for this issue in their database security updates. Organizations should also implement network segmentation to limit access to database servers and enforce the principle of least privilege for database users. Database administrators should monitor for suspicious activities and implement proper input validation measures within their applications. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to techniques involving privilege escalation and command execution, with the potential to be used as a stepping stone for further lateral movement within the network infrastructure. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify similar issues within the database environment and ensure comprehensive protection against similar exploitation vectors.