CVE-2008-1810 in MaxDB
Summary
by MITRE
Untrusted search path vulnerability in dbmsrv in SAP MaxDB 7.6.03.15 on Linux allows local users to gain privileges via a modified PATH environment variable.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/30/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-1810 represents a critical untrusted search path issue within SAP MaxDB 7.6.03.15's dbmsrv component on Linux systems. This flaw resides in the database server's handling of environment variables, specifically the PATH variable that determines the order in which system executables are searched during program execution. The vulnerability stems from the application's failure to properly validate or sanitize the PATH environment variable, creating an opportunity for local attackers to manipulate the execution flow of system processes.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-428, which describes untrusted search path conditions where applications use environment variables without proper validation to determine executable locations. Attackers can exploit this by modifying the PATH environment variable to place malicious executables in directories that are searched before legitimate system binaries. When dbmsrv executes commands or launches auxiliary processes, it will inadvertently invoke these attacker-controlled binaries instead of the intended system utilities, potentially leading to privilege escalation or arbitrary code execution.
This vulnerability operates under the operational context of local privilege escalation attacks, where an attacker with basic system access can leverage the flawed PATH handling to elevate their privileges. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it requires minimal privileges to initiate and can potentially allow an attacker to gain administrative access to the database server. The impact extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as the compromised database server may contain sensitive corporate data, making this vulnerability a significant target for malicious actors seeking to access critical business information.
The operational implications of this vulnerability are substantial for organizations running SAP MaxDB systems, as it represents a persistent security weakness that can be exploited by any local user with access to modify environment variables. The vulnerability demonstrates poor security practices in environment variable handling and highlights the importance of proper input validation and secure coding practices. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including patching the affected SAP MaxDB version, implementing strict environment variable controls, and conducting comprehensive security audits of all database server components. Additionally, this vulnerability relates to ATT&CK technique T1068 which covers local privilege escalation through environment variable manipulation, making it a clear indicator of potential attack paths that security teams must monitor and defend against. The flaw underscores the critical importance of maintaining secure system configurations and avoiding the use of insecure default paths that could be manipulated by unauthorized users to compromise system integrity.