CVE-2006-5852 in OpenBase
Summary
by MITRE
Untrusted search path vulnerability in openexec in OpenBase SQL before 10.0.1 allows local users to gain privileges via a modified PATH that references a malicious helper binary, as demonstrated by (1) cp, (2) rm, and (3) killall, different vectors than CVE-2006-5327.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/27/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2006-5852 represents a critical untrusted search path issue within the openexec component of OpenBase SQL versions prior to 10.0.1. This flaw resides in the manner in which the system handles executable paths during command processing, creating a privilege escalation vector that can be exploited by local attackers. The vulnerability specifically affects the openexec utility which is responsible for executing system commands within the OpenBase SQL environment, making it a significant concern for database security.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper handling of the PATH environment variable within the openexec functionality. When executing commands such as cp, rm, or killall, the system does not properly validate or sanitize the execution paths, allowing malicious actors to manipulate the PATH variable to point to attacker-controlled binaries. This type of vulnerability maps directly to CWE-426, which describes the Untrusted Search Path vulnerability where applications execute programs using paths that are not properly validated. The flaw enables attackers to substitute legitimate system utilities with malicious counterparts that have elevated privileges, thereby bypassing normal security controls.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation to encompass potential system compromise and data integrity breaches. Local users who can manipulate the PATH environment variable can effectively hijack the execution flow of critical system commands, potentially leading to unauthorized file operations, process termination, or even complete system control. The three demonstrated vectors - cp, rm, and killall - represent common system utilities that when compromised can cause significant damage to system stability and security posture. This vulnerability operates under the ATT&CK framework category of Privilege Escalation through Environment Variable Manipulation, where adversaries leverage system configuration weaknesses to gain elevated privileges.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2006-5852 should focus on immediate patching of OpenBase SQL installations to version 10.0.1 or later where the vulnerability has been resolved. Organizations should also implement strict PATH validation mechanisms within their applications, ensuring that executable paths are explicitly defined and validated rather than relying on potentially compromised environment variables. Additional protective measures include implementing proper file system permissions, monitoring for unauthorized PATH modifications, and conducting regular security audits of system utilities and their execution contexts. The vulnerability highlights the importance of secure coding practices around environment variable handling and demonstrates how seemingly simple path resolution mechanisms can create substantial security risks when not properly validated against malicious input.