CVE-2021-2329 in Database Server
Summary
by MITRE • 07/21/2021
Vulnerability in the Oracle XML DB component of Oracle Database Server. Supported versions that are affected are 12.1.0.2, 12.2.0.1 and 19c. Easily exploitable vulnerability allows high privileged attacker having Create Any Procedure, Create Public Synonym privilege with network access via Oracle Net to compromise Oracle XML DB. Successful attacks of this vulnerability can result in takeover of Oracle XML DB. CVSS 3.1 Base Score 7.2 (Confidentiality, Integrity and Availability impacts). CVSS Vector: (CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:H/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H).
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/22/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2021-2329 resides within Oracle XML DB component of Oracle Database Server, representing a significant security weakness that affects specific version ranges including 12.1.0.2, 12.2.0.1, and 19c. This flaw operates as an easily exploitable vulnerability that specifically targets high-privileged attackers who possess the Create Any Procedure and Create Public Synonym privileges. The attack vector requires network access via Oracle Net protocol, making it particularly concerning for environments where database servers are accessible over network connections. The vulnerability's classification as high-privilege dependent means that attackers must already have elevated permissions within the database environment to exploit this weakness effectively.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient access controls and privilege validation mechanisms within Oracle XML DB. When an attacker with the specified privileges executes malicious code through the network interface, they can manipulate the XML DB component to gain unauthorized control over its functionality. This represents a critical compromise of the database's integrity and availability, as the attacker can potentially modify or disable XML DB services entirely. The CVSS score of 7.2 indicates a substantial risk level with high impacts across all three core security principles - confidentiality, integrity, and availability. The vulnerability's characteristics align with CWE-284 (Improper Access Control) and may also relate to CWE-94 (Improper Control of Generation of Code) when considering code execution aspects.
The operational impact of successful exploitation extends beyond simple data compromise to encompass complete system control of the XML DB functionality. Attackers can potentially manipulate database configurations, access sensitive data through XML DB interfaces, and disrupt normal database operations. This vulnerability particularly affects organizations running Oracle Database servers in environments where network exposure is unavoidable, as the attack requires only network connectivity rather than physical access. The implications for enterprise security are significant, as XML DB often serves as a critical interface for web services and data integration processes within database environments. Organizations may experience service disruption, unauthorized data access, and potential data corruption depending on the attacker's objectives.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patching of affected Oracle Database versions to the latest security releases provided by Oracle. Organizations should implement network segmentation to limit access to database servers and restrict Oracle Net access to only trusted administrative networks. Privilege management should be strictly enforced, with the principle of least privilege applied to database accounts, particularly eliminating unnecessary Create Any Procedure and Create Public Synonym privileges for non-essential users. Network access controls should be implemented to monitor and restrict Oracle Net protocol traffic, and regular security audits should verify that database accounts maintain appropriate privilege levels. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing database activity monitoring solutions to detect anomalous behavior that might indicate exploitation attempts, as this vulnerability could potentially be leveraged as part of broader attack campaigns targeting database infrastructure. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under privilege escalation techniques and database attack patterns, making it particularly relevant for organizations implementing comprehensive threat hunting and incident response procedures.