CVE-2008-0369 in Informix Dynamic Server
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple unspecified programs in IBM Informix Dynamic Server (IDS) 10.x before 10.00.xC8 allow local users to create arbitrary files by specifying the target file in the SQLIDEBUG environment variable, whose ownership is changed to the user invoking the programs.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/11/2017
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-0369 represents a significant local privilege escalation issue within IBM Informix Dynamic Server versions 10.x prior to 10.00.xC8. This flaw resides in multiple unspecified programs within the IDS ecosystem and demonstrates a critical weakness in the software's file handling mechanisms. The vulnerability specifically exploits the SQLIDEBUG environment variable to manipulate file creation processes, allowing unauthorized local users to establish files with specific ownership characteristics that can be leveraged for further system compromise.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper handling of environment variables within the IDS programs, creating a path where local users can manipulate file creation operations through the SQLIDEBUG parameter. When programs execute with elevated privileges and process this environment variable, they inadvertently create files in locations specified by the user, with the file ownership being transferred to the invoking user account. This behavior violates fundamental security principles of least privilege and proper file access control, as it enables non-privileged users to potentially create or modify files that would normally require elevated permissions.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents a serious risk to database server security since it allows local attackers to manipulate the file system in ways that could facilitate privilege escalation or persistent access. The ability to create files with specific ownership characteristics means that an attacker could potentially place malicious executables or configuration files in strategic locations within the IDS environment. This creates opportunities for attackers to establish backdoors, modify system configurations, or create files that could be executed with higher privileges than the original user context. The impact extends beyond simple file creation to potentially compromising the integrity and confidentiality of the entire database system.
The vulnerability aligns with CWE-732: Incorrect Permission Assignment for Critical Resources, which specifically addresses situations where improper file permissions or ownership assignments create security risks. Additionally, this issue relates to ATT&CK technique T1068: Exploitation for Privilege Escalation, as it provides a method for local users to gain elevated privileges through improper file system handling. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including applying the vendor-provided security patches, restricting access to the affected programs, and monitoring for unauthorized file creation patterns. System administrators should also consider implementing additional controls such as file integrity monitoring and privilege separation to reduce the attack surface and prevent exploitation of similar vulnerabilities in the future.