CVE-2017-1571 in DB2
Summary
by MITRE
IBM DB2 for Linux, UNIX and Windows (includes DB2 Connect Server) 9.7, 10.1, 10.5, and 11.1 uses weaker than expected cryptographic algorithms that could allow an attacker to decrypt highly sensitive information. IBM X-Force ID: 131853.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/22/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-1571 affects IBM DB2 database management systems across multiple platforms including Linux, UNIX, and Windows operating systems. This issue specifically impacts DB2 versions 9.7, 10.1, 10.5, and 11.1, along with the DB2 Connect Server component. The flaw resides in the cryptographic implementation within the database system, which utilizes weaker than expected encryption algorithms that compromise the confidentiality of sensitive data stored within or transmitted through the database environment. Organizations utilizing these database versions face significant security risks due to the potential for unauthorized data access and information disclosure.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability stems from the implementation of cryptographic protocols within IBM DB2 that do not meet contemporary security standards for encryption strength. When database connections are established or when sensitive information is processed through the system, the weaker cryptographic algorithms may be employed, potentially allowing attackers to intercept and decrypt communications or access stored data without proper authorization. This weakness particularly affects the protection of highly sensitive information that should be secured using robust encryption methods. The vulnerability represents a deviation from expected cryptographic security practices and creates opportunities for adversaries to exploit the system's encryption mechanisms.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-1571 extends beyond simple data exposure, as it fundamentally undermines the security posture of organizations relying on affected DB2 versions. Attackers who successfully exploit this vulnerability could gain access to confidential database information including customer data, financial records, personal identification information, and other sensitive business assets. The implications are particularly severe for organizations in regulated industries where data protection compliance is mandatory, as this vulnerability could result in regulatory violations and significant financial penalties. Additionally, the compromise of database encryption can lead to broader system infiltration attempts, as database credentials and access patterns may be exposed through the weakened cryptographic protections.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations to address this vulnerability by upgrading to patched versions of IBM DB2 that correct the cryptographic implementation issues. The recommended approach includes applying the relevant security patches provided by IBM to ensure that the system employs strong encryption algorithms that meet current security standards. Organizations should also conduct comprehensive assessments of their database environments to identify any instances of the vulnerable versions and implement additional monitoring measures to detect potential exploitation attempts. System administrators should review and strengthen overall database security configurations, including implementing network segmentation, access controls, and encryption for data at rest and in transit. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-327, which addresses the use of weak cryptographic algorithms, and represents a significant concern under the ATT&CK framework's credential access and defense evasion tactics, as it enables adversaries to bypass encryption protections and access sensitive information without detection.