CVE-2012-2658 in unixODBC
Summary
by MITRE
** DISPUTED ** Buffer overflow in the SQLDriverConnect function in unixODBC 2.3.1 allows local users to cause a denial of service (crash) via a long string in the DRIVER option. NOTE: this issue might not be a vulnerability, since the ability to set this option typically implies that the attacker already has legitimate access to cause a DoS or execute code, and therefore the issue would not cross privilege boundaries. There may be limited attack scenarios if isql command-line options are exposed to an attacker, although it seems likely that other, more serious issues would also be exposed, and this issue might not cross privilege boundaries in that context.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/06/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2012-2658 pertains to a buffer overflow condition within the SQLDriverConnect function of unixODBC version 2.3.1, specifically when processing the DRIVER option parameter. This represents a classic buffer overflow flaw that occurs when an application writes more data to a fixed-length buffer than it can accommodate, potentially leading to memory corruption and system instability. The vulnerability manifests when a local user provides an excessively long string as input to the DRIVER parameter, causing the function to overwrite adjacent memory locations and ultimately resulting in application crash or denial of service.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation within the unixODBC library's SQLDriverConnect function, which fails to properly sanitize or limit the length of strings provided in the DRIVER option. This flaw aligns with CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and CWE-122, which covers heap-based buffer overflow scenarios. The buffer overflow occurs during the processing of database connection strings where the application does not enforce proper bounds checking on user-supplied input, allowing maliciously crafted long strings to overwrite critical memory segments including return addresses and stack canaries.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents a significant risk for systems that rely on unixODBC for database connectivity, particularly in environments where local users might have access to command-line tools or configuration interfaces that utilize the affected function. The impact extends beyond simple denial of service to potentially enable privilege escalation scenarios, especially when considering that attackers with local access could leverage this vulnerability to execute arbitrary code or cause persistent system instability. The issue becomes particularly concerning in multi-user environments where database connection management is frequently handled through command-line interfaces or automated scripts that may be exposed to untrusted input sources.
The disputed nature of this vulnerability stems from the fundamental question of whether it represents a true security boundary crossing. While the flaw can be exploited by local users who already possess legitimate access to the system, the lack of privilege escalation capabilities raises questions about its classification as a critical vulnerability. However, this assessment must consider potential attack vectors through exposed command-line options, particularly when isql command-line tools are accessible to untrusted users or when the application interfaces are poorly configured. The vulnerability may be more severe in contexts where the affected system is part of a larger attack surface, as it could serve as a stepping stone for more comprehensive exploitation attempts.
Mitigation strategies should focus on implementing robust input validation and bounds checking mechanisms within the unixODBC library, ensuring that all user-supplied strings are properly sanitized before processing. System administrators should consider upgrading to newer versions of unixODBC where such vulnerabilities have been addressed through proper memory management and input validation. Additionally, implementing network segmentation and access controls can help limit exposure to potentially malicious users who might attempt to exploit this vulnerability. The principle of least privilege should be enforced to prevent local users from accessing database connection interfaces that might expose this vulnerability, while also considering the broader security posture of systems that utilize unixODBC for database connectivity. Organizations should also implement monitoring solutions that can detect anomalous connection string patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts.