CVE-2018-1450 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 contains a vulnerability that could allow a local user to overwrite arbitrary files owned by the DB2 instance owner. IBM X-ForceID: 140045.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/17/2023
This vulnerability exists within IBM DB2 database management systems across multiple versions including 9.7, 10.1, 10.5, and 11.1 for Linux, UNIX, and Windows platforms. The flaw represents a privilege escalation risk that allows local authenticated users to manipulate file permissions and overwrite files owned by the DB2 instance owner. This represents a significant security concern as it could potentially enable attackers to compromise database integrity and confidentiality. The vulnerability stems from insufficient access controls and file handling mechanisms within the database server components that govern how temporary files and system resources are managed during database operations.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the manipulation of file system permissions and access controls within the DB2 environment. When the database server processes certain operations, it creates temporary files or modifies existing system files without proper validation of file ownership or access permissions. This flaw enables a local attacker with database user credentials to exploit the system's file handling routines and overwrite files that should be restricted to the DB2 instance owner. The vulnerability specifically affects the DB2 Connect Server component and the broader DB2 server infrastructure, creating a path for privilege escalation that could ultimately lead to complete system compromise.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability could enable attackers to gain elevated privileges and potentially access sensitive database information or system resources. The local nature of the attack means that an attacker must first obtain legitimate database user credentials, but once achieved, the ability to overwrite critical system files could lead to persistent access or system disruption. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-276, which describes improper file permissions, and represents a classic example of privilege escalation through inadequate access control mechanisms. The attack vector requires local system access and database user authentication, making it less immediately exploitable than remote vulnerabilities but still presenting a serious risk to database security.
The implications of this vulnerability extend beyond simple file overwriting capabilities as it could enable attackers to modify critical database server components, configuration files, or system binaries. This could potentially lead to complete system compromise or data exfiltration, especially if the DB2 instance owner has elevated system privileges. Organizations should consider this vulnerability in the context of ATT&CK framework's privilege escalation techniques, particularly those involving file system permissions and access control manipulation. The vulnerability's presence across multiple DB2 versions indicates a systemic issue within the database server's file handling architecture that requires immediate attention and remediation through official IBM patches.
Mitigation strategies should focus on applying the official IBM security patches and updates that address the specific file permission handling issues. System administrators should also implement additional access controls including restricting local system access to database users and implementing proper file system permissions for DB2 instance directories. Regular security assessments and monitoring for unauthorized file modifications should be implemented as part of the overall security posture. Organizations should also consider implementing principle of least privilege concepts for database user accounts and ensuring that DB2 instance owners maintain appropriate system permissions to prevent unauthorized access to critical system resources.