CVE-2018-1451 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A vulnerability has been identified in IBM DB2 for Linux, UNIX and Windows versions 9.7, 10.1, 10.5, and 11.1 that could allow a user to overwrite files owned by the DB2 instance owner.

Understanding CVE-2018-1451

This CVE involves a file manipulation vulnerability in IBM DB2 for Linux, UNIX, and Windows, potentially enabling local users to overwrite specific files.

What is CVE-2018-1451?

The vulnerability in IBM DB2 for Linux, UNIX, and Windows versions 9.7, 10.1, 10.5, and 11.1 allows local users to overwrite files owned by the DB2 instance owner.

The Impact of CVE-2018-1451

The vulnerability may lead to unauthorized file modifications by users with local access, potentially compromising the integrity and confidentiality of data stored in the affected DB2 instances.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-1451

This section provides detailed technical insights into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in IBM DB2 for Linux, UNIX, and Windows versions 9.7, 10.1, 10.5, and 11.1 allows local users to overwrite files owned by the DB2 instance owner, posing a risk of unauthorized data manipulation.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: DB2 for Linux, UNIX and Windows
Vendor: IBM
Affected Versions: 9.7, 10.1, 10.5, 11.1

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability enables local users to exploit the DB2 instance owner's file permissions, potentially leading to unauthorized file overwrites.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2018-1451, follow these mitigation strategies:

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply the patches provided by IBM to fix the vulnerability.
Restrict local user access to critical DB2 files to minimize the risk of unauthorized file overwrites.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly monitor and audit file permissions and ownership within the DB2 environment.
Implement the principle of least privilege to restrict user access rights and minimize the impact of potential vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security updates and patches released by IBM for DB2 for Linux, UNIX, and Windows.