CVE-2019-4447 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

IBM DB2 High Performance Unload load for LUW versions 6.1, 6.1.0.1, 6.1.0.1 IF1, 6.1.0.2, 6.1.0.2 IF1, and 6.1.0.1 IF2 contain a vulnerability that allows a user to gain root access by manipulating the PATH variable. This CVE was identified by IBM X-Force with ID 163488.

Understanding CVE-2019-4447

This CVE affects IBM's DB2 High Performance Unload load for LUW, potentially leading to privilege escalation.

What is CVE-2019-4447?

The vulnerability in versions 6.1 and related subversions allows a low-privileged user to exploit the db2hpum_debug feature to gain root access by manipulating the PATH variable.

The Impact of CVE-2019-4447

The vulnerability has a CVSSv3 base score of 8.4 (High severity) and affects confidentiality, integrity, and availability. It requires no special privileges to exploit and has a high impact on the system.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-4447

The technical aspects of the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The db2hpum_debug feature in the affected versions is a setuid root binary that trusts the PATH environment variable.
By altering the PATH variable to a controlled location, a low-privileged user can execute arbitrary commands as root.
Manipulating the PATH variable to cause a crash allows the execution of the gdb command, granting root access.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: DB2 High Performance Unload load for LUW
Versions: 6.1, 6.1.0.1, 6.1.0.1 IF1, 6.1.0.2, 6.1.0.2 IF1, 6.1.0.1 IF2

Exploitation Mechanism

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

Mitigation and Prevention

Steps to address and prevent the vulnerability.

Immediate Steps to Take

Disable or restrict access to the db2hpum_debug feature.
Implement strict controls on the PATH environment variable.
Regularly monitor and audit system logs for suspicious activities.

Long-Term Security Practices

Conduct regular security training for users on best practices and security awareness.
Keep systems and software updated with the latest security patches.

Patching and Updates

Apply official fixes provided by IBM to address the vulnerability.