CVE-2006-4305 in SAP
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in SAP DB and MaxDB before 7.6.00.30 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a long database name when connecting via a WebDBM client.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/15/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2006-4305 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw affecting SAP DB and MaxDB database systems prior to version 7.6.00.30. This issue specifically manifests when a WebDBM client establishes a connection to the database server, creating a remote code execution vector that could be exploited by malicious actors without requiring authentication. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms within the database name handling process, where the system fails to properly sanitize or limit the length of database identifiers provided during the connection phase.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves a classic buffer overflow condition where an attacker can craft a maliciously long database name that exceeds the allocated buffer space within the WebDBM client component. When the system processes this oversized input, it overwrites adjacent memory regions, potentially allowing an attacker to inject and execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the database service account. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-121, which specifically addresses stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and can be classified as a remote code execution vulnerability within the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the technique of code injection.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data compromise, as successful exploitation could lead to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, and potential lateral movement within network environments where SAP databases are deployed. Database administrators and security professionals must consider that this vulnerability affects not just individual database instances but potentially entire enterprise environments where SAP solutions are integrated. The remote nature of the attack means that threat actors can exploit this weakness from outside the network perimeter, making it particularly dangerous for organizations with exposed database services.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2006-4305 should prioritize immediate patching of affected SAP DB and MaxDB installations to version 7.6.00.30 or later, which contains the necessary fixes for the buffer overflow condition. Network segmentation and firewall rules should be implemented to restrict access to database services, particularly limiting WebDBM client connectivity to trusted administrative networks only. Additionally, organizations should implement robust input validation procedures and monitor for unusual connection patterns or malformed database name requests that could indicate exploitation attempts. Security teams should also consider deploying intrusion detection systems capable of identifying the specific traffic patterns associated with this vulnerability to enhance their monitoring capabilities and reduce the risk of successful exploitation.