CVE-2007-1086 in access
Summary
by MITRE
Unspecified binaries in IBM DB2 8.x before 8.1 FixPak 15 and 9.1 before Fix Pack 2 allow local users to create or modify arbitrary files via unspecified environment variables related to "unsafe file access."
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/15/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-1086 represents a critical security flaw in IBM DB2 database management systems affecting versions 8.x prior to FixPak 15 and 9.1 prior to FixPack 2. This issue stems from improper handling of environment variables during binary execution, creating opportunities for local privilege escalation and unauthorized file system modifications. The vulnerability specifically targets the unsafe file access patterns that occur when database processes interact with system environment variables during their operational lifecycle.
The technical flaw manifests through unspecified environment variables that control binary execution paths within the DB2 installation. When these variables are not properly validated or sanitized, they can be manipulated by local users to redirect file operations to arbitrary locations on the system. This creates a path for privilege escalation attacks where unprivileged users can potentially modify critical system files or create malicious files with elevated privileges. The vulnerability operates at the operating system level rather than the database level, making it particularly dangerous as it leverages underlying system weaknesses rather than database-specific flaws.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability enables local users to potentially compromise the integrity of the entire database system and underlying operating environment. Attackers could exploit this weakness to modify system binaries, create backdoor access points, or manipulate database configuration files to gain persistent access to the system. The implications extend beyond simple file modification as the ability to create or modify arbitrary files can lead to complete system compromise, especially when combined with other exploitation techniques. This vulnerability directly aligns with CWE-276, which addresses improper file permissions, and represents a classic example of insecure file handling in system-level applications.
The security implications of CVE-2007-1086 are significant within the context of database security and system integrity. Organizations running affected IBM DB2 versions face potential unauthorized access to critical system resources, data corruption, and possible complete system compromise. The vulnerability's local nature means that any user with access to the system can potentially exploit it, making it particularly dangerous in multi-user environments where user privileges may not be properly restricted. This issue also relates to ATT&CK technique T1068, which covers local privilege escalation through improper file permissions, and demonstrates how seemingly minor configuration flaws can create major security risks in enterprise database environments.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability center on applying the appropriate IBM DB2 fix packs and security updates that address the unsafe file access patterns in environment variable handling. System administrators should immediately upgrade to IBM DB2 8.1 FixPak 15 or 9.1 FixPack 2 to remediate the vulnerability. Additional protective measures include implementing strict file permission controls, monitoring environment variable usage within database processes, and conducting regular security audits of database system configurations. Organizations should also consider implementing principle of least privilege access controls and regularly reviewing system logs for suspicious file access patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability highlights the critical importance of keeping database management systems updated with the latest security patches and maintaining comprehensive system security monitoring protocols to prevent exploitation of such fundamental system-level flaws.