CVE-2018-1780 : What You Need to Know

IBM DB2 for Linux, UNIX, and Windows versions 9.7, 10.1, 10.5, and 11.1 are vulnerable to a privilege escalation issue that could allow a local db2 instance owner to gain root access through a symbolic link attack.

Understanding CVE-2018-1780

This CVE identifies a vulnerability in IBM DB2 for Linux, UNIX, and Windows versions 9.7, 10.1, 10.5, and 11.1, including DB2 Connect Server, that could lead to unauthorized root access.

What is CVE-2018-1780?

The vulnerability in IBM DB2 allows a local db2 instance owner to exploit a symbolic link attack, granting them root access. This attack enables the unauthorized reading, writing, or corruption of files that were initially inaccessible to the attacker.

The Impact of CVE-2018-1780

The vulnerability poses a high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, potentially allowing unauthorized users to gain elevated privileges and compromise sensitive data.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-1780

IBM DB2 for Linux, UNIX, and Windows versions 9.7, 10.1, 10.5, and 11.1 are affected by a privilege escalation vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allows a local db2 instance owner to escalate privileges and gain root access through a symbolic link attack.

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

Attack Complexity: Low
Attack Vector: Local
Privileges Required: Low
Exploit Code Maturity: Unproven
User Interaction: None
Scope: Unchanged

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2018-1780, follow these mitigation strategies:

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply official fixes provided by IBM
Monitor and restrict access to sensitive files
Implement least privilege access controls

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch DB2 installations
Conduct security training for personnel to prevent symbolic link attacks

Patching and Updates

IBM has released official fixes to address the vulnerability