CVE-2017-12636 in CouchDB
Summary
by MITRE
CouchDB administrative users can configure the database server via HTTP(S). Some of the configuration options include paths for operating system-level binaries that are subsequently launched by CouchDB. This allows an admin user in Apache CouchDB before 1.7.0 and 2.x before 2.1.1 to execute arbitrary shell commands as the CouchDB user, including downloading and executing scripts from the public internet.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/31/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2017-12636 represents a critical privilege escalation flaw in Apache CouchDB that allows administrative users to execute arbitrary shell commands on the underlying operating system. This issue affects versions prior to 1.7.0 for the 1.x series and 2.1.1 for the 2.x series, creating a significant security risk for organizations relying on CouchDB for database operations. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization within the database server's configuration mechanisms, specifically in how it handles paths to operating system binaries that are subsequently executed by the CouchDB process.
The technical flaw manifests when administrative users configure database server settings through HTTP(S) interfaces, where certain configuration parameters accept paths to system binaries. These parameters are not properly validated or sanitized, allowing attackers with administrative privileges to inject malicious paths that point to executable files on the system. When CouchDB processes these configurations, it executes the specified binaries as the CouchDB user account, which typically runs with limited but elevated privileges. This creates a pathway for arbitrary code execution that can be leveraged to download and execute additional malicious payloads from external sources, effectively granting attackers persistent access to the system.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple command execution, as it enables attackers to establish persistent backdoors, exfiltrate data, and potentially escalate privileges further within the compromised environment. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it requires only administrative access to the CouchDB instance, which is often less tightly controlled than system-level administrative privileges. This vulnerability can be exploited to download and execute scripts from the public internet, allowing attackers to perform reconnaissance, deploy additional malware, or establish command and control channels. The implications are especially severe in environments where CouchDB serves as a central data repository for applications, as it can provide attackers with access to sensitive organizational data.
Organizations should immediately implement mitigations including upgrading to patched versions of CouchDB, specifically version 1.7.0 or later for the 1.x series and 2.1.1 or later for the 2.x series. Network segmentation and access controls should be strengthened to limit administrative access to CouchDB instances, while implementing principle of least privilege for user accounts. Additionally, organizations should monitor for unauthorized configuration changes and implement intrusion detection systems to identify suspicious activities related to CouchDB administration. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-78, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in OS commands, and maps to ATT&CK techniques including privilege escalation through command execution and persistence mechanisms. Regular security audits and vulnerability assessments should be conducted to identify and remediate similar configuration flaws in other database systems and applications.