CVE-2016-8998 in Tivoli Storage Manager
Summary
by MITRE
IBM Tivoli Storage Manager Server 7.1 could allow an authenticated user with TSM administrator privileges to cause a buffer overflow using a specially crafted SQL query and execute arbitrary code on the server. IBM Reference #: 1998747.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/02/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-8998 affects IBM Tivoli Storage Manager Server version 7.1, representing a critical buffer overflow flaw that can be exploited by authenticated users possessing administrator privileges. This security weakness stems from inadequate input validation within the SQL query processing functionality of the TSM server component, creating a pathway for malicious code execution. The vulnerability specifically manifests when the system processes specially crafted SQL queries that exceed predetermined buffer boundaries, leading to memory corruption and potential arbitrary code execution. The flaw exists within the server-side processing logic that handles database queries, making it particularly dangerous as it requires only administrative authentication to exploit. Attackers leveraging this vulnerability could gain full control over the affected TSM server, potentially compromising the entire storage management infrastructure and accessing sensitive data stored within the system. The impact extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as the compromised server could serve as a launching point for further attacks within the network infrastructure. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which categorizes buffer overflow conditions that occur when a program writes data beyond the boundaries of a fixed-length buffer, and represents a classic example of CWE-787, which deals with out-of-bounds write conditions. The attack vector operates through the TSM server's SQL processing capabilities, where an authenticated administrator could craft malicious SQL statements designed to trigger the buffer overflow condition. The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe, as it allows for complete system compromise and unauthorized data access, potentially exposing sensitive enterprise data and disrupting critical storage management operations. Organizations utilizing TSM Server 7.1 must understand that this vulnerability could enable attackers to bypass traditional security controls and establish persistent access to their storage infrastructure. The exploit requires minimal user interaction beyond authentication, as the vulnerability is triggered through legitimate administrative functions that are part of normal TSM server operations. From an enterprise security perspective, this vulnerability represents a significant risk to data integrity and system availability, as it allows for both unauthorized access and potential disruption of storage services. The flaw's exploitation capability means that a single compromised administrative account could result in widespread system compromise, making it particularly concerning for organizations with centralized storage management systems. IBM's security advisory for reference number 1998747 indicates that the vulnerability affects the server-side SQL query handling functionality and requires specific conditions to be met for successful exploitation. The attack pattern follows established methodologies found in the MITRE ATT&CK framework, specifically relating to privilege escalation and execution techniques that leverage application-level vulnerabilities. Organizations should consider implementing network segmentation and access controls to limit the potential impact of such vulnerabilities, while also ensuring timely patch deployment to address the underlying buffer overflow condition. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of robust input validation and memory management practices in enterprise storage systems, particularly those handling sensitive data through database interfaces. Proper security monitoring and log analysis should be implemented to detect unusual SQL query patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts, as the vulnerability's impact extends beyond immediate code execution to potential data exfiltration and system disruption. The affected TSM Server 7.1 environment represents a critical security concern that requires immediate attention and remediation to prevent unauthorized access to enterprise storage infrastructure and protect sensitive data assets.