CVE-2016-0226 in Informix Dynamic Server
Summary
by MITRE
The client implementation in IBM Informix Dynamic Server 11.70.xCn on Windows does not properly restrict access to the (1) nsrd, (2) nsrexecd, and (3) portmap executable files, which allows local users to gain privileges via a Trojan horse file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/11/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-0226 affects IBM Informix Dynamic Server version 11.70.xCn on Windows platforms and represents a critical privilege escalation flaw stemming from improper access controls within the client implementation. This vulnerability specifically targets three critical executable files: nsrd, nsrexecd, and portmap, which are essential components of the Informix database system's network services architecture. The flaw lies in the insufficient restriction of file access permissions that allows local attackers to exploit a Trojan horse attack vector to elevate their privileges on the affected system. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-276, which addresses improper file permissions, and directly relates to the broader category of privilege escalation vulnerabilities that pose significant security risks to database environments.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits the lack of proper file access controls in the Windows environment where IBM Informix Dynamic Server operates. When the system attempts to execute these three critical services, the client implementation fails to properly validate or restrict access to the executable files, creating an opportunity for malicious actors to substitute legitimate executables with malicious counterparts. This Trojan horse approach allows attackers to place their own code in the execution path, which then gets executed with elevated privileges due to the improper access restrictions. The vulnerability specifically targets the Windows file system permissions model where the system does not adequately enforce proper access controls on these network service executables, creating a window of opportunity for privilege escalation attacks. The flaw essentially allows a local user to manipulate the execution environment of these services and gain elevated system privileges.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as it provides attackers with significant control over the database server environment. Once successfully exploited, attackers can gain elevated privileges that allow them to access sensitive database information, modify system configurations, install malicious software, or even compromise the entire database server infrastructure. The vulnerability affects organizations that rely on IBM Informix Dynamic Server for their database operations, particularly those running on Windows platforms where the specific version 11.70.xCn is deployed. The attack vector requires local system access, making it particularly dangerous in environments where multiple users have access to the database server or where privilege escalation attacks are already underway. This vulnerability directly impacts the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of database systems, potentially leading to data breaches, system compromise, and business disruption.
Organizations affected by CVE-2016-0226 should implement immediate mitigations to address this privilege escalation vulnerability. The primary recommendation involves updating to the latest available patches from IBM that address the improper access control issues in the client implementation. System administrators should also review and tighten file permissions on the affected executable files nsrd, nsrexecd, and portmap to ensure that only authorized users and processes can modify or execute these components. Additionally, implementing proper file integrity monitoring solutions can help detect unauthorized changes to these critical system files. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper access control implementation and follows ATT&CK technique T1068, which addresses privilege escalation through local exploits. Organizations should also consider implementing network segmentation and access control measures to limit local system access where possible, reducing the attack surface for such privilege escalation vectors. Regular security audits and vulnerability assessments should be conducted to identify similar access control flaws in other database systems and applications within the enterprise environment.