CVE-2016-9037 in Tarantool
Summary
by MITRE
An exploitable out-of-bounds array access vulnerability exists in the xrow_header_decode function of Tarantool 1.7.2.0-g8e92715. A specially crafted packet can cause the function to access an element outside the bounds of a global array that is used to determine the type of the specified key's value. This can lead to an out of bounds read within the context of the server. An attacker who exploits this vulnerability can cause a denial of service vulnerability on the server.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/12/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-9037 represents a critical out-of-bounds array access flaw within the Tarantool database management system version 1.7.2.0. This issue manifests in the xrow_header_decode function, which serves as a crucial component for processing incoming network packets and decoding their headers. The vulnerability stems from inadequate bounds checking mechanisms that fail to validate array indices before accessing memory locations, creating a potential pathway for malicious exploitation.
The technical flaw operates through a specific code path where the xrow_header_decode function processes network packets containing key-value data structures. When processing these packets, the function accesses a global array without proper validation of the index values, leading to memory access beyond the allocated array boundaries. This out-of-bounds read condition occurs during the determination of key value types, where the system attempts to map packet data to appropriate data type identifiers. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-129 as an "Improper Validation of Array Index" and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1499.004 for network denial of service attacks.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple memory corruption, presenting significant risks to server stability and availability. An attacker capable of crafting malicious network packets can trigger the out-of-bounds read condition, potentially causing the Tarantool server to crash or behave unpredictably. This leads to a denial of service scenario where legitimate users cannot access database services, effectively disrupting business operations and potentially exposing the system to further exploitation attempts. The vulnerability's exploitability is enhanced by the fact that it operates at the protocol level, making it accessible to attackers without requiring elevated privileges or direct system access.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2016-9037 should prioritize immediate patching of affected Tarantool installations to version 1.7.3.0 or later, which contains the necessary fixes for the array bounds checking issue. Network administrators should implement robust input validation at network boundaries, including packet filtering rules that can identify and block malformed packets targeting the vulnerable function. Additionally, deploying intrusion detection systems with signature-based detection capabilities can help identify exploitation attempts. The fix implemented by Tarantool developers involves strengthening array boundary checks within the xrow_header_decode function, ensuring that all array indices are validated before memory access occurs. Organizations should also consider implementing monitoring solutions to detect unusual patterns in database service behavior that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of rigorous input validation in network-facing applications and highlights the need for continuous security assessment of database systems.