CVE-2010-3194 in DB2
Summary
by MITRE
The DB2DART program in IBM DB2 9.1 before FP9, 9.5 before FP6, and 9.7 before FP2 allows attackers to bypass intended file access restrictions via unspecified vectors related to overwriting files owned by an instance owner.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/24/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-3194 affects IBM DB2 database management systems across multiple versions including 9.1 before fix pack 9, 9.5 before fix pack 6, and 9.7 before fix pack 2. This security flaw resides within the DB2DART program which serves as a diagnostic tool for database administrators. The vulnerability represents a significant privilege escalation risk as it enables attackers to circumvent intended file access controls that are typically enforced by the database system. The flaw specifically relates to improper handling of file operations that allows malicious actors to overwrite files owned by the database instance owner, thereby potentially gaining unauthorized access to sensitive system resources.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and access control mechanisms within the DB2DART utility. Attackers can exploit this weakness through unspecified vectors that manipulate file system operations to overwrite files owned by the database instance owner. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-276 category of insecure file permissions, where the system fails to properly enforce file access controls. The attack vector likely involves crafting specific input parameters or commands that cause the DB2DART program to perform file operations without proper authorization checks. The vulnerability essentially allows for arbitrary file overwrite operations that could target critical database configuration files, log files, or other system resources.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is substantial as it provides attackers with a means to escalate privileges within the database environment. When an attacker successfully exploits this vulnerability, they can overwrite files owned by the database instance owner, potentially leading to complete system compromise. This capability allows for persistent access and can be leveraged to install backdoors, modify database configurations, or access sensitive data stored within the database. The vulnerability particularly affects systems where database administrators have elevated privileges and where the DB2DART utility is accessible to unauthorized users. This weakness can be exploited in both local and remote attack scenarios, depending on the system configuration and network access controls in place.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability should immediately apply the relevant fix packs from IBM to address the security issue. The recommended mitigation strategy involves implementing proper access controls for the DB2DART program and ensuring that only authorized administrators can execute the utility. System administrators should also conduct thorough audits of file permissions and access controls on database instance owner files to identify any potential unauthorized modifications. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for command and scripting interpreter and T1068 for exploit for privilege escalation. Additional defensive measures include network segmentation to limit access to database systems, regular security assessments, and monitoring for suspicious file modification activities. Organizations should also consider implementing principle of least privilege access controls for database management utilities and maintaining up-to-date security patches across all database installations.