CVE-2020-4623 in i2 iBase
Summary
by MITRE • 07/26/2021
IBM i2 iBase 8.9.13 could allow a local authenticated attacker to execute arbitrary code on the system, caused by a DLL search order hijacking flaw. By using a specially-crafted .DLL file, an attacker could exploit this vulnerability to execute arbitrary code on the system. IBM X-Force ID: 184984.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/05/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2020-4623 affects IBM i2 iBase version 8.9.13 and represents a critical security flaw that enables local authenticated attackers to achieve arbitrary code execution on affected systems. This vulnerability stems from a DLL search order hijacking issue that fundamentally compromises the application's security model. The flaw occurs when the system attempts to load dynamic link library files without properly validating the source or path of these components, creating an exploitable condition where malicious code can be injected into the legitimate application execution flow.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the exploitation of Windows dynamic link library loading mechanisms where applications search for required DLL files in a specific order that can be manipulated by attackers. When an attacker places a malicious .DLL file in a location that gets searched before the legitimate system libraries, the application inadvertently loads and executes the attacker-controlled code. This type of vulnerability falls under the Common Weakness Enumeration category CWE-426, which specifically addresses the dangerous use of search paths or search order dependencies in application development. The attack vector requires local authentication since the vulnerability is not remotely exploitable, but it provides significant privilege escalation capabilities for attackers who have already gained access to the system.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution as it allows attackers to potentially escalate privileges and gain full control over the affected system. Once an attacker successfully exploits this vulnerability, they can execute malicious code with the privileges of the running process, which could include administrative rights depending on how the iBase application is configured. The implications are particularly severe in enterprise environments where iBase applications may be running with elevated privileges or have access to sensitive business data and systems. This vulnerability also aligns with MITRE ATT&CK framework techniques related to privilege escalation and persistence mechanisms, as the successful exploitation could enable attackers to maintain long-term access to the compromised system.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including applying the vendor-provided security patches and updates released by IBM to address this specific DLL search order issue. System administrators should also conduct thorough security assessments to identify any potentially compromised systems and implement additional protective measures such as enabling Windows Defender Application Control or AppLocker policies to restrict DLL loading from untrusted locations. The vulnerability highlights the importance of secure coding practices and proper DLL loading mechanisms that should be enforced throughout the software development lifecycle. Additionally, network segmentation and least privilege access controls should be implemented to limit the potential impact of such vulnerabilities even when they are successfully exploited, as this type of local privilege escalation can lead to complete system compromise if not properly contained through defensive measures.