CVE-2019-4094 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

IBM DB2 for Linux, UNIX, and Windows versions 9.7, 10.1, 10.5, and 11.1 have a vulnerability that allows low privilege users to gain root access by loading malicious shared libraries.

Understanding CVE-2019-4094

This CVE involves a privilege escalation vulnerability in IBM DB2 for Linux, UNIX, and Windows.

What is CVE-2019-4094?

The vulnerability in IBM DB2 for Linux, UNIX, and Windows versions 9.7, 10.1, 10.5, and 11.1 allows a low privilege user to load shared libraries from an untrusted path, potentially leading to root access.

The Impact of CVE-2019-4094

CVSS Score: 8.4 (High)
Attack Vector: Local
Confidentiality Impact: High
Integrity Impact: High
Availability Impact: High
Privileges Required: None
Exploit Code Maturity: Unproven
User Interaction: None
Remediation Level: Official Fix
Report Confidence: Confirmed

Technical Details of CVE-2019-4094

This section provides technical details of the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allows low privilege users to gain root access by loading malicious shared libraries in IBM DB2 for Linux, UNIX, and Windows.

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 arises from loading shared libraries from an untrusted path, enabling unauthorized users to escalate privileges.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protect your systems from CVE-2019-4094 with these mitigation strategies.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply official fixes provided by IBM.
Monitor for any unauthorized library loading activities.
Restrict access to critical system files and directories.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch IBM DB2 installations.
Implement least privilege access controls to limit user capabilities.
Conduct security audits to detect and prevent similar vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Ensure all IBM DB2 installations are updated with the latest security patches.