CVE-2014-6560 in Database Server
Summary
by MITRE
Unspecified vulnerability in the Java VM component in Oracle Database Server 11.1.0.7, 11.2.0.3, 11.2.0.4, 12.1.0.1, and 12.1.0.2 allows remote authenticated users to affect confidentiality, integrity, and availability via unknown vectors, a different vulnerability than CVE-2014-6453, CVE-2014-6467, and CVE-2014-6545.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/22/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-6560 represents a significant security flaw within Oracle Database Server's Java Virtual Machine component that affects multiple versions including 11.1.0.7, 11.2.0.3, 11.2.0.4, 12.1.0.1, and 12.1.0.2. This vulnerability falls under the category of unspecified weakness that exists within the database server's execution environment, specifically impacting the Java Virtual Machine functionality that enables Java-based applications and stored procedures to run within the database context. The vulnerability is classified as remote and authenticated, meaning that an attacker must possess valid credentials to exploit this weakness, but once exploited, the impact can extend across all three fundamental principles of information security: confidentiality, integrity, and availability. This classification aligns with CWE-119 which describes weaknesses that lead to memory corruption and can affect the core security properties of systems.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from the Java Virtual Machine implementation within Oracle Database Server, where the unspecified vectors likely involve improper handling of Java code execution or memory management within the database environment. The Java Virtual Machine component serves as the runtime environment for Java-based database objects such as stored procedures, triggers, and other Java-based applications that leverage database functionality. When an authenticated user executes malicious Java code or exploits improper validation within the JVM, it can potentially lead to unauthorized data access, data corruption, or system resource exhaustion. This vulnerability differs from related CVE-2014-6453, CVE-2014-6467, and CVE-2014-6545, indicating that while they may share similar attack surfaces, each vulnerability has distinct exploitation methods and underlying technical flaws. The attack surface for this vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates within the database's Java execution environment, potentially allowing attackers to manipulate database objects or access sensitive information through crafted Java code execution paths.
The operational impact of CVE-2014-6560 extends beyond simple data compromise, as the vulnerability can simultaneously affect all three pillars of information security. Confidentiality breaches can occur when attackers gain unauthorized access to database contents through manipulated Java execution, potentially exposing sensitive business data, personal information, or intellectual property. Integrity violations may manifest through data corruption or modification of database objects, where malicious Java code could alter stored procedures or database tables. Availability risks arise when the vulnerability allows for resource exhaustion or system instability through improper Java code execution, potentially leading to denial of service conditions that impact database availability. From an adversary perspective, this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 which covers the use of Java for execution, and T1499 which addresses the potential for system disruption through various attack vectors. The authenticated nature of the vulnerability means that attackers must first obtain valid credentials, but once inside the system, they can leverage this weakness to expand their access or cause significant damage.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including applying Oracle's security patches and updates specifically addressing this vulnerability, as well as implementing network segmentation and access controls to limit the potential impact of authenticated attacks. Database administrators should conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments focusing on Java-based database objects and stored procedures, implementing proper code review processes for all Java code executed within the database environment. Monitoring and logging should be enhanced to detect anomalous Java code execution patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability's presence in multiple versions of Oracle Database Server emphasizes the importance of maintaining up-to-date security patches and implementing proper vulnerability management processes. Organizations should also consider disabling unnecessary Java functionality within database environments when not required for business operations, reducing the attack surface for potential exploitation. Additionally, implementing principle of least privilege access controls and regular credential rotation can help limit the potential impact of authenticated attacks that exploit this vulnerability.