CVE-2016-9052 in Database Server
Summary
by MITRE
An exploitable stack-based buffer overflow vulnerability exists in the querying functionality of Aerospike Database Server 3.10.0.3. A specially crafted packet can cause a stack-based buffer overflow in the function as_sindex__simatch_by_iname resulting in remote code execution. An attacker can simply connect to the port to trigger this vulnerability.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/14/2026
The CVE-2016-9052 vulnerability represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow within the Aerospike Database Server version 3.10.0.3, specifically within the as_sindex__simatch_by_iname function. This flaw resides in the database server's querying functionality, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited through network connections without requiring authentication. The vulnerability stems from improper input validation when processing specially crafted packets that are sent to the database server's listening port, creating a condition where attacker-controlled data can overwrite adjacent stack memory locations. The attack vector is straightforward and accessible, as any remote user can trigger the vulnerability by simply connecting to the target server's port, making it an attractive target for automated exploitation campaigns.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves a classic stack buffer overflow scenario where the as_sindex__simatch_by_iname function fails to properly bounds-check input parameters during index matching operations. When the database server processes a malicious packet containing oversized or malformed data, the function's stack allocation does not account for the attacker's input size, allowing memory corruption that can overwrite return addresses and execution pointers. This type of vulnerability maps directly to CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190 for exploitation of remote services. The flaw essentially allows an attacker to manipulate the program's execution flow by overwriting the stack frame, potentially enabling arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the database process.
The operational impact of CVE-2016-9052 extends beyond simple remote code execution, as it fundamentally compromises the integrity and availability of the database server. Successful exploitation can lead to complete system compromise, data theft, or denial of service conditions that can persist for extended periods. Organizations running affected Aerospike versions face significant risk exposure since the vulnerability requires no authentication and can be exploited by any network-connected attacker. The vulnerability's presence in the database server's core querying functionality means that even legitimate database operations could be disrupted, and the attack surface includes not just direct database connections but also any applications that rely on Aerospike for data storage and retrieval. This creates cascading effects throughout enterprise environments where database availability and data integrity are critical business functions.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2016-9052 should prioritize immediate patching of affected Aerospike Database Server installations to version 3.10.1 or later, which contains the necessary fixes for the buffer overflow condition. Network-level protections should include firewall rules that restrict access to Aerospike server ports to trusted networks only, implementing port filtering and access control lists. Additionally, organizations should deploy intrusion detection systems that can identify patterns associated with exploitation attempts, such as unusual packet sizes or malformed queries targeting the vulnerable function. The implementation of network segmentation and zero-trust security models can further reduce the attack surface by limiting lateral movement opportunities. Security monitoring should include regular vulnerability scanning of database infrastructure and continuous log analysis to detect anomalous database query patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. Organizations should also consider implementing application-level controls and input validation mechanisms to provide additional defense-in-depth layers against similar vulnerabilities in other database components.