CVE-2016-6143 in HANA DB
Summary
by MITRE
SAP HANA DB 1.00.73.00.389160 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via vectors involving the audit logs, aka SAP Security Note 2170806.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/30/2020
SAP HANA Database version 1.00.73.00.389160 contains a critical remote code execution vulnerability that stems from improper handling of audit log data. This vulnerability exists within the database's logging mechanisms and allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on the target system. The flaw specifically manifests when the system processes audit log entries, creating a pathway for malicious actors to inject and execute unauthorized commands. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it enables attackers to gain full control over the database server without requiring authentication credentials, making it a severe threat to enterprise environments that rely on SAP HANA for critical data operations.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves a buffer overflow or injection flaw within the audit log processing component of SAP HANA. Attackers can craft specially malformed audit log entries that, when processed by the database system, trigger code execution. This type of vulnerability typically falls under CWE-121, which describes buffer overflow conditions, or CWE-94, which covers improper control of generation of code. The attack vector leverages the system's legitimate audit logging functionality to deliver malicious payloads, making detection more challenging. The vulnerability is classified as remote because no local access or authentication is required to exploit it, and the attack can be launched from any network location.
The operational impact of CVE-2016-6143 extends beyond simple code execution to encompass complete system compromise and data exfiltration capabilities. Organizations using affected SAP HANA versions face significant risks including unauthorized data access, data corruption, system downtime, and potential lateral movement within network infrastructures. The vulnerability affects database integrity and availability, potentially leading to business disruption and regulatory compliance violations. Attackers can leverage this flaw to establish persistent access, escalate privileges, and access sensitive enterprise data. The security implications are particularly severe for financial institutions, healthcare organizations, and other enterprises that store sensitive information in SAP HANA databases, as the vulnerability can lead to complete system takeover.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should include immediate patching from SAP as outlined in Security Note 2170806, which provides specific remediation steps and updated software versions. Organizations should also implement network segmentation to limit access to SAP HANA systems, disable unnecessary audit log features, and monitor for suspicious log entries that might indicate exploitation attempts. Security controls should include implementing intrusion detection systems that can identify malformed audit log patterns and network monitoring tools that detect unusual traffic patterns associated with exploitation. Additionally, organizations should conduct thorough vulnerability assessments to identify all systems running affected SAP HANA versions and establish incident response procedures specifically addressing remote code execution vulnerabilities. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1059 for command and script injection, making it a critical target for defensive measures that focus on preventing code execution in database environments.