CVE-2007-4517 in Database Server
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in the XDB.XDB_PITRIG_PKG.PITRIG_DROPMETADATA procedure in Oracle 10g R2 allows remote authenticated users to execute arbitrary code via a long (1) OWNER or (2) NAME argument.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/07/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-4517 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw within Oracle Database 10g Release 2 that exposes the XDB.XDB_PITRIG_PKG.PITRIG_DROPMETADATA procedure to remote code execution attacks. This vulnerability specifically targets the handling of user-supplied input parameters within the database's metadata management functions, creating a pathway for authenticated attackers to escalate privileges and execute arbitrary code on the affected system. The flaw manifests when the procedure processes overly long OWNER or NAME arguments, which are typically used in database trigger and metadata operations within the Oracle XML Database framework.
The technical implementation of this buffer overflow stems from inadequate input validation and bounds checking within the PITRIG_DROPMETADATA procedure. When an authenticated user submits a maliciously crafted argument exceeding the allocated buffer size, the procedure fails to properly handle the overflow condition, allowing memory corruption that can be leveraged by attackers to overwrite critical program execution data. This vulnerability operates at the database layer and requires authentication to exploit, as the procedure is designed to be accessible only to authenticated database users with appropriate privileges. The attack vector specifically targets the XML Database (XDB) component, which provides XML storage and retrieval capabilities within Oracle 10g R2 environments, making it particularly dangerous for systems that heavily utilize XML data processing.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it can enable attackers to gain unauthorized access to sensitive database information, modify or delete critical data, and potentially escalate privileges to administrative levels within the database environment. The remote nature of the attack means that exploitation can occur from any network location where the database is accessible, making it particularly concerning for organizations with exposed database servers. This vulnerability directly relates to CWE-121, which categorizes buffer overflow conditions that occur when insufficient bounds checking allows data to be written beyond the allocated buffer boundaries, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.003 for command and scripting interpreter usage, as successful exploitation would likely involve executing malicious commands through the database interface.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability should implement immediate mitigation strategies including applying the relevant Oracle security patches and database updates that address the buffer overflow condition. Database administrators should also consider implementing additional access controls and monitoring procedures to detect anomalous usage patterns in the XDB package procedures. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and bounds checking in database applications, highlighting the need for regular security assessments of database components and adherence to secure coding practices. Additionally, network segmentation and firewall rules should be implemented to restrict access to database servers to only trusted networks and authorized users, reducing the attack surface for this and similar vulnerabilities.