CVE-2006-3858 in Informix Dynamic Server
Summary
by MITRE
IBM Informix Dynamic Server (IDS) before 9.40.xC8 and 10.00 before 10.00.xC4 stores passwords in plaintext in shared memory, which allows local users to obtain passwords by reading the memory (product defects 171893, 171894, 173772).
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/24/2019
The vulnerability described in CVE-2006-3858 represents a critical security flaw in IBM Informix Dynamic Server versions prior to specific patch levels. This issue stems from improper handling of authentication credentials within the database management system's memory management architecture. The flaw allows local attackers to extract plaintext passwords from shared memory segments, fundamentally undermining the security model of the database system. Such a vulnerability is particularly concerning given that IBM Informix is widely deployed in enterprise environments where sensitive data is routinely processed and stored. The affected versions include IDS 9.40.xC8 and earlier releases, as well as IDS 10.00.xC4 and earlier versions of the 10.00 release line. The vulnerability affects the core authentication mechanisms of the database system, creating an attack vector that bypasses normal security controls through direct memory access.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the storage of password credentials in plaintext format within shared memory regions that are accessible to local processes. When authentication occurs within the IDS environment, the system does not adequately protect the password data during its temporary storage in memory, leaving it exposed to memory scraping techniques. This flaw is classified as a product defect under IBM's internal tracking system, specifically referenced as defects 171893, 171894, and 173772. The memory exposure occurs during the authentication process when the system maintains password information in a format that can be directly read by any process with appropriate memory access permissions. This represents a fundamental failure in the application of secure coding practices and memory management protocols within the database engine's authentication subsystem. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-312 (CWE-312: Cleartext Storage of Sensitive Information) which specifically addresses the insecure storage of sensitive data in memory.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple credential theft, as it provides attackers with immediate access to database authentication credentials that can be used for unauthorized database access and potential data exfiltration. Local users who can access shared memory segments gain the ability to escalate their privileges within the database environment, potentially leading to full system compromise when combined with other attack vectors. The vulnerability affects database administrators who may not be aware that their authentication credentials are exposed in memory, creating an insidious threat that can persist undetected for extended periods. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to gain access to sensitive enterprise data, perform unauthorized database operations, and potentially establish persistent access to critical systems. This flaw particularly impacts organizations that rely on IDS for mission-critical applications, as the compromise of database credentials can lead to significant data breaches and regulatory compliance violations.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patching of affected IBM Informix Dynamic Server installations to the recommended versions that address the memory storage issue. Organizations should implement strict access controls to prevent unauthorized local access to systems running IDS, including proper user privilege management and monitoring of memory access patterns. System administrators should conduct thorough security audits to identify and remove any unnecessary processes that might access shared memory segments containing sensitive information. The implementation of additional security controls such as memory protection mechanisms and regular security scanning can help detect potential exploitation attempts. Organizations should also consider implementing database activity monitoring solutions that can detect anomalous access patterns potentially indicating credential theft. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to T1003.001 (OS Credential Dumping: LSASS Memory) and T1074.001 (Data Staged: Local Data Staging), representing the exploitation of memory-based credential theft techniques. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper memory management practices and secure credential handling, emphasizing the need for regular security updates and comprehensive security awareness training for database administrators.