CVE-2011-0757 in DB2
Summary
by MITRE
IBM DB2 9.1 before FP10, 9.5 before FP6a, and 9.7 before FP2 on Linux, UNIX, and Windows does not properly revoke the DBADM authority, which allows remote authenticated users to execute non-DDL statements by leveraging previous possession of this authority.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/18/2025
This vulnerability affects IBM DB2 database management systems across multiple versions including 9.1 before FP10, 9.5 before FP6a, and 9.7 before FP2 running on Linux, UNIX, and Windows platforms. The core issue lies in the improper revocation of DBADM (Database Administrator) authority within the database access control mechanism. Database administrators typically possess extensive privileges including the ability to execute Data Definition Language statements that modify database structure, but this vulnerability specifically impacts the revocation process of administrative privileges.
The technical flaw stems from a weakness in the privilege management system where users who previously held DBADM authority can continue to execute certain non-DDL statements even after their administrative privileges have been revoked. This represents a critical authorization bypass vulnerability that operates under the CWE-284 access control weakness category, specifically addressing improper access control mechanisms. The vulnerability allows authenticated remote attackers to leverage previously acquired administrative privileges to perform operations that should be restricted to authorized administrators only.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is significant as it creates a persistent security risk where former database administrators or users who have been removed from administrative roles can continue to execute database operations that could compromise data integrity, availability, and confidentiality. This allows attackers to potentially modify database configurations, access sensitive data, or perform operations that could lead to complete database compromise. The vulnerability directly maps to ATT&CK technique T1078.004 which covers valid accounts with elevated privileges, as it enables unauthorized execution using previously legitimate administrative credentials.
Remote authenticated users can exploit this vulnerability by first obtaining DBADM authority through legitimate means, then performing unauthorized operations after their privileges have been revoked. This creates a window of opportunity where the system fails to properly enforce access control boundaries. The vulnerability affects database operations that do not involve Data Definition Language statements, meaning users can still execute data manipulation and query operations with elevated privileges. Organizations using affected DB2 versions face potential data breaches, unauthorized data access, and system compromise risks that could result in regulatory compliance violations and significant financial losses.
The recommended mitigations include applying the appropriate IBM security patches and fix packs for each affected version, implementing strict privilege management policies, and conducting regular access control audits. Organizations should also consider implementing additional monitoring for unusual database activities and ensure that privilege revocation processes are properly enforced. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper privilege lifecycle management and the need for robust access control mechanisms that prevent unauthorized operations even when users have previously held elevated privileges.