CVE-2020-6248 in Adaptive Server Enterprise
Summary
by MITRE
SAP Adaptive Server Enterprise (Backup Server), version 16.0, does not perform the necessary validation checks for an authenticated user while executing DUMP or LOAD command allowing arbitrary code execution or Code Injection.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/16/2020
SAP Adaptive Server Enterprise Backup Server version 16.0 contains a critical security vulnerability that stems from insufficient input validation during execution of DUMP and LOAD commands. This flaw exists within the server's authentication and command processing mechanisms, creating a pathway for authenticated attackers to bypass normal security controls. The vulnerability manifests when the system fails to properly validate user credentials and command parameters, allowing maliciously crafted inputs to be processed without adequate sanitization. This represents a fundamental breakdown in the principle of least privilege and input validation that forms the cornerstone of secure application design. The issue falls under CWE-20, which specifically addresses improper input validation, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for input validation bypass and command injection.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability enables an authenticated user to execute arbitrary code on the affected system through the manipulation of DUMP and LOAD command parameters. When these commands are processed, the system does not sufficiently validate the input data, allowing attackers to inject malicious code that gets executed with the privileges of the authenticated user. This code injection capability can be leveraged to escalate privileges, access sensitive data, modify system configurations, or even establish persistent backdoors within the database environment. The vulnerability's impact extends beyond simple code execution as it fundamentally compromises the integrity and confidentiality of the database system. Attackers can manipulate backup operations to execute malicious payloads during normal database maintenance activities, making detection more challenging.
The operational impact of CVE-2020-6248 is severe for organizations relying on SAP Adaptive Server Enterprise for their database operations. A successful exploitation can lead to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, and disruption of critical business processes. The vulnerability affects backup and restore operations which are essential components of database management, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited during routine maintenance windows when system monitoring may be reduced. Organizations using this version of SAP ASE face significant risk of unauthorized access to sensitive corporate data, potential regulatory compliance violations, and substantial financial losses due to potential data breaches. The vulnerability's stealthy nature allows attackers to operate undetected for extended periods, as the malicious activities can be disguised as legitimate backup operations.
Organizations should immediately implement multiple layers of defense to protect against exploitation of this vulnerability. The primary mitigation involves applying the official SAP security patches and updates released for SAP Adaptive Server Enterprise version 16.0. Additionally, network segmentation should be implemented to restrict access to database servers and limit the attack surface. Access controls must be strengthened through proper authentication mechanisms, including multi-factor authentication, and regular review of user permissions. Input validation should be enhanced through regular security audits and code reviews focusing on command execution paths. Monitoring solutions should be configured to detect anomalous backup operations and unusual patterns in DUMP and LOAD command usage. System administrators should also consider implementing database activity monitoring tools that can identify potential code injection attempts and provide real-time alerts for suspicious activities. The vulnerability's classification as a high-severity issue according to CVSS v3.1 scoring underscores the urgency of implementing these protective measures.