CVE-2008-1997 in DB2
Summary
by MITRE • 01/25/2023
Unspecified vulnerability in the ADMIN_SP_C2 procedure in IBM DB2 8 before FP16, 9.1 before FP4a, and 9.5 before FP1 allows remote authenticated users to execute arbitrary code via unknown vectors. NOTE: the ADMIN_SP_C issue is already covered by CVE-2008-0699.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/25/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-1997 represents a critical security flaw within IBM DB2 database management systems affecting multiple versions including DB2 8 before fix pack 16, DB2 9.1 before fix pack 4a, and DB2 9.5 before fix pack 1. This issue specifically targets the ADMIN_SP_C2 procedure which operates within the database's administrative framework, creating a pathway for remote authenticated attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected systems. The vulnerability's classification as unspecified indicates that the precise technical mechanism enabling code execution was not fully detailed in the initial disclosure, though it was understood to involve the administrative stored procedure functionality. The fact that this vulnerability is noted as being covered by CVE-2008-0699 suggests that the underlying issue may have been partially or fully addressed through the same remediation efforts, though the distinct CVE identifier indicates a specific manifestation or variant of the broader administrative stored procedure vulnerability landscape.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from improper input validation and privilege escalation mechanisms within the ADMIN_SP_C2 procedure. When authenticated users interact with this administrative stored procedure, the system fails to properly validate or sanitize input parameters, potentially allowing maliciously crafted inputs to be interpreted as executable code. This type of vulnerability aligns with CWE-119, which addresses weaknesses in the management of memory or resources, and could also relate to CWE-20, which covers input validation issues. The attack vector requires remote authenticated access, meaning that an attacker must already possess valid credentials to the database system, but once authenticated, they can leverage this vulnerability to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the database user account. This represents a significant escalation from typical database access violations, as it allows for system-level code execution rather than mere data manipulation or unauthorized access to information.
The operational impact of CVE-2008-1997 extends beyond simple database compromise, as successful exploitation can result in complete system takeover, data exfiltration, and lateral movement within network environments where database servers reside. Database administrators typically operate with elevated privileges to manage database operations, and if an attacker can execute arbitrary code through the ADMIN_SP_C2 procedure, they effectively gain the same elevated privileges. This vulnerability particularly affects enterprise environments where DB2 databases serve as critical data repositories, potentially exposing sensitive corporate information, financial records, and customer data. The remote nature of the attack means that exploitation can occur from anywhere on the network, making detection and mitigation more challenging. Organizations with multiple DB2 instances across different platforms and versions may face widespread exposure, as the vulnerability affects a range of DB2 versions and could be leveraged across various deployment scenarios, from small business implementations to large enterprise systems.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-1997 should focus on immediate patch deployment and access control enhancements. IBM released fix packs addressing this vulnerability, with DB2 8.0 FP16, 9.1 FP4a, and 9.5 FP1 containing the necessary security updates. Organizations should prioritize patch management processes to ensure all affected DB2 installations receive the appropriate updates. Additionally, implementing network segmentation and access controls can reduce the attack surface by limiting which authenticated users can access administrative procedures. The principle of least privilege should be enforced, ensuring that database users only possess the minimum necessary permissions to perform their required functions. Monitoring and logging of administrative procedure calls should be enhanced to detect anomalous behavior patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. Network-based intrusion detection systems should be configured to alert on unusual database administrative activities, particularly those involving stored procedure execution. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning of database environments, as similar issues may exist within other administrative procedures within the DB2 ecosystem. This case underscores the need for comprehensive database security management practices that go beyond traditional perimeter-based security measures.