CVE-2018-1451 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-Force ID: 140046.
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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 specifically affects the DB2 Connect Server component and represents a critical file overwrite vulnerability that can be exploited by local users to gain elevated privileges. The vulnerability stems from improper handling of file operations during database connectivity processes, creating a path where malicious actions can manipulate files owned by the DB2 instance owner. This represents a significant security risk as it allows attackers with local access to potentially compromise the entire database infrastructure through file system manipulation.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the DB2 system's failure to properly validate file paths and permissions during connection handling processes. When DB2 Connect Server processes incoming connections, it performs operations that can be manipulated to overwrite files in the system's file hierarchy. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-22 which describes improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal attacks. Attackers can exploit this weakness by crafting specific connection requests that cause the system to write files to locations controlled by the attacker, potentially leading to privilege escalation or system compromise. The flaw is particularly dangerous because it operates at the file system level rather than at the application layer, making detection and prevention more challenging.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file overwrites to potentially compromise the entire database environment. A successful exploitation can allow an attacker to modify critical database configuration files, replace system binaries, or manipulate database logs to hide malicious activities. This vulnerability directly impacts the integrity and availability of database operations, as attackers could corrupt essential system files or inject malicious code into the database environment. The attack vector requires local system access, but once achieved, it provides a persistent foothold that can be used to escalate privileges and move laterally within the network infrastructure. Organizations using affected DB2 versions face significant risk of unauthorized system compromise, data integrity violations, and potential regulatory compliance violations due to the severity of potential impact.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate patching of affected systems with IBM's security updates, as well as implementing additional access controls and monitoring mechanisms. System administrators should ensure that DB2 instance owners have minimal necessary privileges and that file system permissions are properly configured to limit potential damage. Network segmentation and monitoring of database connection activities can help detect anomalous behavior that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059 which covers command and scripting interpreter, as exploitation typically involves executing commands that manipulate file systems. Organizations should also implement comprehensive audit logging to track file system modifications and establish baseline behaviors for database connectivity to detect deviations that might indicate exploitation attempts. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify and remediate similar weaknesses in database environments.