CVE-2007-3336 in database server
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple "pointer overwrite" vulnerabilities in Ingres database server 2006 9.0.4, r3, 2.6, and 2.5, as used in multiple CA (formerly Computer Associates) products, allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary code by sending certain TCP data at different times to the Ingres Communications Server Process (iigcc), which calls the (1) QUinsert or (2) QUremove functions with attacker-controlled input.
VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/20/2019
The CVE-2007-3336 vulnerability represents a critical security flaw in the Ingres database server software that has significant implications for organizations relying on CA products. This vulnerability specifically affects Ingres database server versions 2006 9.0.4, r3, 2.6, and 2.5, which were widely deployed in enterprise environments. The flaw manifests as multiple pointer overwrite vulnerabilities that occur within the Ingres Communications Server Process (iigcc) component, making it particularly dangerous as it operates at a fundamental level of the database communication stack. These vulnerabilities are classified under CWE-121, which deals with stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and they align with ATT&CK technique T1190 for exploiting vulnerabilities in remote services.
The technical exploitation mechanism involves sending specially crafted TCP data packets to the vulnerable Ingres server at different timing intervals. When the server processes these packets, it invokes either the QUinsert or QUremove functions with attacker-controlled input parameters. This manipulation of function parameters leads to memory corruption through pointer overwrites, where malicious data overwrites critical memory locations including return addresses or function pointers. The vulnerability is particularly insidious because it allows remote code execution without requiring authentication, making it an attractive target for attackers seeking to compromise database servers. The attack vector specifically targets the communication layer of the database server, which means that any application or service communicating with the Ingres server could potentially be exploited.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple unauthorized code execution, as database servers often contain sensitive corporate data, financial records, and personal information. Successful exploitation could result in complete system compromise, data exfiltration, and disruption of business operations. Organizations using affected CA products would face significant risk of data breaches, regulatory compliance violations, and potential financial losses. The vulnerability's presence in multiple versions of the Ingres software means that a wide range of legacy systems could be at risk, particularly those that have not received timely security updates. Network monitoring systems would need to be enhanced to detect anomalous TCP traffic patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts, and security teams would need to prioritize patching efforts across their entire infrastructure.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-3336 should include immediate implementation of security patches provided by CA and Ingres, as well as network-level protections such as firewalls that restrict access to database ports and services. Organizations should consider implementing network segmentation to isolate database servers from general network traffic, and deploy intrusion detection systems capable of identifying the specific TCP patterns associated with exploitation attempts. The vulnerability highlights the importance of maintaining up-to-date software patches and conducting regular vulnerability assessments of database infrastructure. Additionally, security teams should implement monitoring procedures to detect unusual database communication patterns and establish incident response protocols specifically designed to address remote code execution vulnerabilities in database systems. Compliance with industry standards such as NIST SP 800-40 and ISO 27001 becomes critical when addressing such vulnerabilities, as they provide frameworks for managing database security risks effectively.