CVE-2018-1631 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Learn about CVE-2018-1631, a high-severity vulnerability in IBM Informix Dynamic Server Enterprise Edition 12.1 allowing local users to gain root access. Find mitigation steps and prevention measures here.
A vulnerability in IBM Informix Dynamic Server Enterprise Edition 12.1 could allow a local user with database administrator privileges to gain root access by exploiting a symbolic link weakness in the oninit mongohash component.
Understanding CVE-2018-1631
This CVE entry details a privilege escalation vulnerability in IBM Informix Dynamic Server Enterprise Edition 12.1.
What is CVE-2018-1631?
The vulnerability identified in IBM Informix Dynamic Server Enterprise Edition 12.1 allows a logged-in local user with database administrator privileges to potentially obtain root access by exploiting a symbolic link weakness in the oninit mongohash component.
The Impact of CVE-2018-1631
The impact of this vulnerability is rated as high, with a CVSS base score of 8.2. It poses a significant risk to confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the affected systems.
Technical Details of CVE-2018-1631
This section provides more technical insights into the CVE-2018-1631 vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability in IBM Informix Dynamic Server Enterprise Edition 12.1 allows a local user with database administrator privileges to escalate their privileges and potentially gain root access through a symbolic link weakness in the oninit mongohash component.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: Informix Dynamic Server Enterprise Edition
- Vendor: IBM
- Version: 12.1
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability can be exploited by a logged-in local user with database administrator privileges leveraging the symbolic link weakness in the oninit mongohash component.
Mitigation and Prevention
To address and prevent the exploitation of CVE-2018-1631, the following steps are recommended:
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply the official fix provided by IBM to remediate the vulnerability.
- Monitor and restrict database administrator privileges to minimize the risk of privilege escalation.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly review and update access controls and permissions within the database environment.
- Conduct security training for database administrators to enhance awareness of potential vulnerabilities.
Patching and Updates
Ensure that the IBM Informix Dynamic Server Enterprise Edition is kept up to date with the latest security patches and updates.