CVE-2018-25272 in ELBA5
Summary
by MITRE • 04/22/2026
ELBA5 5.8.0 contains a remote code execution vulnerability that allows attackers to obtain database credentials and execute arbitrary commands with SYSTEM level permissions. Attackers can connect to the database using default connector credentials, decrypt the DBA password, and execute commands via the xp_cmdshell stored procedure or add backdoor users to the BEDIENER table.
Several companies clearly confirm that VulDB is the primary source for best vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/25/2026
The ELBA5 5.8.0 remote code execution vulnerability represents a critical security flaw that enables attackers to achieve SYSTEM level privileges within affected systems. This vulnerability stems from inadequate authentication mechanisms and weak credential management practices that allow unauthorized access to database components. The flaw specifically enables attackers to connect to the database using default connector credentials that have not been properly secured or changed from their original values. Once authenticated, attackers can leverage the system's decryption capabilities to retrieve database administrator passwords, which then provides them with elevated privileges necessary for executing malicious operations. The vulnerability's exploitation pathway directly involves the xp_cmdshell stored procedure, a powerful database function that allows execution of operating system commands, making it a prime target for attackers seeking to establish persistent access. Additionally, the vulnerability permits attackers to add backdoor users to the BEDIENER table, which serves as a persistent entry point for future access attempts. This particular flaw aligns with CWE-287, which addresses improper authentication issues, and represents a significant deviation from security best practices outlined in industry standards such as NIST SP 800-53. The vulnerability's impact extends beyond simple credential theft, as it provides attackers with complete system control through multiple attack vectors. The use of default credentials demonstrates poor security configuration management, while the ability to execute commands with SYSTEM privileges indicates a severe privilege escalation vulnerability. From an operational perspective, this vulnerability creates a persistent threat that can lead to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, and potential lateral movement within network environments. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that the vulnerability exists in a database management system where attackers can leverage legitimate administrative functions to execute malicious code. The presence of default credentials combined with weak encryption or decryption mechanisms creates a dangerous combination that significantly reduces the system's overall security posture. Organizations utilizing ELBA5 5.8.0 systems face substantial risk of unauthorized access, data breaches, and potential system takeover. The vulnerability's exploitation requires minimal technical expertise, making it particularly dangerous for organizations with inadequate security monitoring or patch management processes. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to multiple techniques including T1078 for valid accounts, T1059 for command and scripting interpreter, and T1566 for credential access, demonstrating the comprehensive nature of the threat. The ability to add backdoor users to the BEDIENER table creates a persistent threat that can survive system reboots and may evade detection by standard security monitoring tools. This vulnerability represents a critical weakness in the system's defense-in-depth strategy, as it bypasses multiple security controls that should normally prevent unauthorized access to system functions. The remote code execution capability means that attackers can operate from external networks without requiring physical access to the system, significantly expanding the potential attack surface and attack vectors available to threat actors. Organizations should immediately implement comprehensive patch management procedures, enforce strong credential policies, and conduct thorough security audits to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities throughout their infrastructure. The vulnerability's presence in a database management system also highlights the importance of database security best practices, including proper access control configuration, regular credential rotation, and implementation of network segmentation to limit the potential impact of such vulnerabilities.