CVE-2016-10577 in ibm_db
Summary
by MITRE
ibm_db is an asynchronous/synchronous interface for node.js to IBM DB2 and IBM Informix. ibm_db before 1.0.2 downloads binary resources over HTTP, which leaves it vulnerable to MITM attacks. It may be possible to cause remote code execution (RCE) by swapping out the requested binary with an attacker controlled binary if the attacker is on the network or positioned in between the user and the remote server.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/17/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-10577 affects the ibm_db node.js module, which serves as an interface for connecting to IBM DB2 and IBM Informix databases. This module version prior to 1.0.2 exhibits a critical security flaw in its binary resource acquisition mechanism that fundamentally compromises the integrity of the software installation process. The vulnerability stems from the module's reliance on unencrypted HTTP protocols for downloading essential binary components during installation, creating an exploitable attack surface that can be leveraged by malicious actors positioned within the network infrastructure.
The technical flaw manifests in the module's failure to implement secure transmission mechanisms for binary resources, specifically using HTTP instead of HTTPS for all download operations. This design decision exposes the installation process to man-in-the-middle attacks where adversaries can intercept network traffic between the client system and remote servers hosting the required binaries. When an attacker successfully executes such an attack, they can substitute the legitimate binary with a maliciously crafted alternative that appears identical to the original but contains backdoor code or other malicious functionality. This substitution process can occur transparently to end users who remain unaware that their system has been compromised during the installation phase.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data integrity concerns to encompass potential remote code execution capabilities that could result in complete system compromise. An attacker who successfully manipulates the binary download process can potentially achieve arbitrary code execution on the target system with the privileges of the user performing the installation. This represents a severe escalation of risk since the vulnerability exists at the installation stage rather than during runtime operations, meaning that any system utilizing the vulnerable version of ibm_db becomes vulnerable to compromise before it can even begin operating normally. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it requires minimal network proximity or interception capabilities to execute successfully.
This vulnerability aligns with CWE-319, which specifically addresses the exposure of sensitive information through improper use of network protocols, and demonstrates characteristics consistent with ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for command and control through the potential for remote code execution. The module's reliance on insecure HTTP connections violates fundamental security principles outlined in industry best practices and security frameworks that mandate the use of encrypted communication channels for all data transfers, particularly those involving software installation and updates. Organizations should immediately implement mitigation strategies including updating to ibm_db version 1.0.2 or later, implementing network-level controls to prevent HTTP traffic to external servers, and conducting thorough security assessments of systems that may have been affected by this vulnerability during the vulnerable timeframe.