CVE-2018-1448 : Security Advisory and Response

IBM DB2 for Linux, UNIX, and Windows versions 9.7, 10.1, 10.5, and 11.1 are affected by a security flaw that allows a local user to overwrite files owned by the DB2 instance owner.

Understanding CVE-2018-1448

This CVE identifies a vulnerability in IBM DB2 for Linux, UNIX, and Windows versions 9.7, 10.1, 10.5, and 11.1.

What is CVE-2018-1448?

IBM DB2 for Linux, UNIX, and Windows versions 9.7, 10.1, 10.5, and 11.1 contain a security flaw that could be exploited by a local user to write over files owned by the DB2 instance owner.

The Impact of CVE-2018-1448

CVSS Base Score: 7.7 (High)
Attack Vector: Local
Attack Complexity: Low
Confidentiality Impact: None
Integrity Impact: High
Availability Impact: High
Privileges Required: None
Scope: Unchanged
User Interaction: None

Technical Details of CVE-2018-1448

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allows a local user to overwrite files owned by the DB2 instance owner.

Affected Systems and Versions

IBM DB2 for Linux, UNIX, and Windows 9.7
IBM DB2 for Linux, UNIX, and Windows 10.1
IBM DB2 for Linux, UNIX, and Windows 10.5
IBM DB2 for Linux, UNIX, and Windows 11.1

Exploitation Mechanism

The flaw can be exploited by a local user to write over any files owned by the DB2 instance owner.

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply the necessary security patches provided by IBM.
Restrict access to vulnerable systems.
Monitor file system changes for unauthorized activities.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch the DB2 software.
Implement the principle of least privilege to limit user access.
Conduct regular security audits and assessments.

Patching and Updates

Ensure that all DB2 installations are updated with the latest security patches to mitigate the vulnerability.