CVE-2018-1635 : What You Need to Know
Learn about CVE-2018-1635, a high-severity vulnerability in IBM Informix Dynamic Server Enterprise Edition 12.1 allowing privilege escalation. Find mitigation steps and preventive measures.
IBM Informix Dynamic Server Enterprise Edition 12.1 is affected by a stack-based buffer overflow vulnerability that allows an authenticated user to execute code with root privileges, potentially leading to a root shell. The vulnerability was published on August 7, 2019.
Understanding CVE-2018-1635
This CVE involves a critical vulnerability in IBM Informix Dynamic Server Enterprise Edition 12.1 that enables privilege escalation for authenticated users.
What is CVE-2018-1635?
An authenticated user can exploit a stack-based buffer overflow vulnerability in the oninit component of IBM Informix Dynamic Server Enterprise Edition 12.1. This allows the user to execute pre-defined code with root privileges, potentially enabling them to escalate to a root shell.
The Impact of CVE-2018-1635
- CVSS Score: 8.2 (High Severity)
- Attack Vector: Local
- Confidentiality Impact: High
- Integrity Impact: High
- Availability Impact: High
- Privileges Required: High
- Exploit Code Maturity: Unproven
- Remediation Level: Official Fix
- Report Confidence: Confirmed
Technical Details of CVE-2018-1635
This section provides detailed technical information about the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The stack-based buffer overflow in oninit in IBM Informix Dynamic Server Enterprise Edition 12.1 allows an authenticated user to execute predefined code with root privileges, potentially escalating to a root shell.
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 an authenticated user to execute malicious code with elevated privileges, posing a significant security risk.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting systems from CVE-2018-1635 requires immediate action and long-term security measures.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply the official fix provided by IBM to address the vulnerability.
- Monitor for any unauthorized access or suspicious activities on the affected systems.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update and patch software to prevent known vulnerabilities.
- Implement strong authentication mechanisms to control access to critical systems.
Patching and Updates
- Ensure all systems running IBM Informix Dynamic Server Enterprise Edition 12.1 are updated with the latest security patches and fixes.