CVE-2018-1632 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

IBM Informix Dynamic Server Enterprise Edition 12.1 has a vulnerability that could allow a local user with database administrator privileges to gain root access.

Understanding CVE-2018-1632

This CVE involves a vulnerability in IBM Informix Dynamic Server Enterprise Edition 12.1 that could lead to privilege escalation.

What is CVE-2018-1632?

The vulnerability in IBM Informix Dynamic Server Enterprise Edition 12.1 allows a local user with database administrator privileges to potentially gain root access due to a symbolic link vulnerability in the .infxdirs file.

The Impact of CVE-2018-1632

CVSS Base Score: 8.2 (High)
CVSS Vector: CVSS:3.0/UI:N/S:C/AC:L/C:H/PR:H/I:H/A:H/AV:L/RL:O/RC:C/E:U
Severity: High
Confidentiality Impact: High
Integrity Impact: High
Availability Impact: High
Privileges Required: High
Attack Complexity: Low
Attack Vector: Local
Exploit Code Maturity: Unproven
Report Confidence: Confirmed
Scope: Changed
Temporal Score: 7.1 (High)
User Interaction: None

Technical Details of CVE-2018-1632

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allows a local user with database administrator privileges to gain root access through a symbolic link vulnerability in the .infxdirs file.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected Product: Informix Dynamic Server Enterprise Edition
Vendor: IBM
Affected Version: 12.1

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by a local user with database administrator privileges to escalate their access to root level.

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply the official fix provided by IBM to address the vulnerability.
Restrict database administrator privileges to trusted users only.
Monitor and review database activities regularly.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement the principle of least privilege for user access.
Conduct regular security training for database administrators.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security bulletins and updates from IBM.