CVE-2016-9053 in Database Server
Summary
by MITRE
An exploitable out-of-bounds indexing vulnerability exists within the RW fabric message particle type of Aerospike Database Server 3.10.0.3. A specially crafted packet can cause the server to fetch a function table outside the bounds of an array 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 • 08/16/2020
The CVE-2016-9053 vulnerability represents a critical out-of-bounds memory access flaw within the Aerospike Database Server 3.10.0.3 that resides in the RW fabric message particle type processing component. This vulnerability manifests as a buffer over-read condition that occurs when the server handles specially crafted network packets, specifically those involving the RW fabric message processing mechanism. The flaw exists in the function table lookup process where the server fails to properly validate array indices before accessing memory locations, creating a pathway for malicious exploitation.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation within the network protocol handling layer of the Aerospike server. When a client establishes a connection and sends a malformed packet, the server's message processing routine attempts to access a function table using an index derived from the packet data without proper bounds checking. This allows an attacker to manipulate the index value to point beyond the legitimate array boundaries, causing the server to read memory locations that belong to other data structures or code segments. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-129 as an insufficient validation of array indices, which directly enables the out-of-bounds memory access pattern.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe as it enables remote code execution without requiring authentication or any privileged access. An attacker can simply connect to the Aerospike server's network port and send a malicious packet to trigger the vulnerability, making it particularly dangerous in networked environments where the database server is exposed to untrusted networks. The remote execution capability allows attackers to potentially gain complete control over the affected server, leading to data compromise, service disruption, or further lateral movement within the network infrastructure.
This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1210 - Exploitation of Remote Services, specifically targeting the network service exploitation phase where attackers leverage unpatched vulnerabilities in database systems. The attack surface is particularly concerning as Aerospike servers are often deployed in production environments where they handle sensitive data and are accessible over network connections. Organizations using this database version face significant risk of unauthorized access and potential data breaches, as the vulnerability can be exploited from any location with network access to the affected service port. The exploitation process requires minimal sophistication, making it particularly dangerous for widespread abuse.
Mitigation strategies should focus on immediate patching of the Aerospike Database Server to version 3.10.1 or later, which contains the necessary fixes for the out-of-bounds indexing vulnerability. Network segmentation and firewall rules should be implemented to restrict access to Aerospike server ports from untrusted networks, limiting the attack surface. Additionally, implementing network monitoring to detect anomalous packet patterns and conducting regular vulnerability assessments of database systems can help identify and remediate similar issues before they can be exploited. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of input validation and bounds checking in network service implementations, particularly in systems handling sensitive enterprise data.