CVE-2020-2517 in Database Server
Summary
by MITRE
Vulnerability in the Database Gateway for ODBC component of Oracle Database Server. Supported versions that are affected are 12.2.0.1, 18c and 19c. Difficult to exploit vulnerability allows high privileged attacker having Create Procedure, Create Database Link privilege with network access via OracleNet to compromise Database Gateway for ODBC. Successful attacks of this vulnerability can result in unauthorized update, insert or delete access to some of Database Gateway for ODBC accessible data and unauthorized ability to cause a partial denial of service (partial DOS) of Database Gateway for ODBC. CVSS 3.0 Base Score 3.3 (Integrity and Availability impacts). CVSS Vector: (CVSS:3.0/AV:N/AC:H/PR:H/UI:N/S:U/C:N/I:L/A:L).
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/21/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2020-2517 resides within Oracle Database Server's Database Gateway for ODBC component, representing a significant security weakness that affects multiple supported versions including 12.2.0.1, 18c, and 19c. This vulnerability operates at the intersection of database gateway functionality and network-based attack vectors, creating a complex threat landscape for organizations relying on Oracle database infrastructure. The affected component serves as a bridge between Oracle databases and external ODBC-compliant systems, making it a critical pathway for data integration and access. The vulnerability's classification as difficult to exploit indicates that while it requires specific conditions and privileges, the potential impact makes it a serious concern for database administrators and security professionals.
The technical flaw manifests when a high-privileged attacker with specific database permissions executes a targeted attack through OracleNet network protocols. The attacker must possess Create Procedure and Create Database Link privileges, which represent elevated database permissions that typically should be restricted to trusted administrators. This requirement for specific privileges creates a layered attack scenario where initial access might be gained through other means, such as credential compromise or lateral movement within the network. The OracleNet protocol serves as the network communication channel that enables this vulnerability to be exploited, making network security controls and access restrictions crucial defensive measures. The vulnerability's CVSS 3.0 score of 3.3 reflects the moderate severity level, with integrity and availability impacts rated as the primary concerns.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data compromise to include partial denial of service conditions that can disrupt database gateway operations. Successful exploitation allows attackers to perform unauthorized update, insert, or delete operations on data accessible through the Database Gateway for ODBC, potentially leading to data corruption or manipulation. The partial denial of service aspect means that while complete system shutdown may not occur, the gateway functionality can be significantly impaired, affecting database connectivity and data processing capabilities. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-269, which addresses privilege escalation issues, and represents a specific case where network-based access combined with database privileges creates a dangerous attack vector. Organizations using Oracle Database Server with Database Gateway for ODBC components face potential data integrity threats and service disruption risks that could affect business operations and regulatory compliance.
The mitigation strategies for CVE-2020-2517 should focus on multiple defensive layers including privilege management, network segmentation, and timely patch deployment. Database administrators should immediately review and restrict Create Procedure and Create Database Link privileges to only essential administrative accounts, following the principle of least privilege. Network access controls should be implemented to limit OracleNet communication to trusted sources and reduce the attack surface. Oracle recommends applying the appropriate security patches as soon as they become available, which typically address the underlying code vulnerabilities that enable this attack vector. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under privilege escalation and network-based attacks, emphasizing the need for comprehensive monitoring and detection capabilities. Organizations should also implement database activity monitoring to detect unusual procedure creation or database link establishment activities that might indicate exploitation attempts. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should include verification of patched status for all Oracle Database Server components to prevent similar vulnerabilities from remaining unaddressed in the infrastructure.