CVE-2020-2731 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A vulnerability in the Core RDBMS component of Oracle Database Server affecting versions 12.1.0.2, 12.2.0.1, 18c, and 19c allows unauthorized access and potential denial of service attacks.

Understanding CVE-2020-2731

This CVE involves a security flaw in Oracle Database Server that can be exploited by a low-privileged attacker with Local Logon privilege, potentially leading to unauthorized data access and partial denial of service.

What is CVE-2020-2731?

The vulnerability in the Core RDBMS component of Oracle Database Server impacts versions 12.1.0.2, 12.2.0.1, 18c, and 19c. It allows attackers with Local Logon privilege to compromise the Core RDBMS, resulting in unauthorized data access and partial denial of service.

The Impact of CVE-2020-2731

Successful exploitation can lead to unauthorized update, insert, or delete access to Core RDBMS data.
Attackers can cause a partial denial of service (partial DOS) of the Core RDBMS.
CVSS 3.0 Base Score: 3.9 (Integrity and Availability impacts).

Technical Details of CVE-2020-2731

This section provides more technical insights into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allows a low-privileged attacker with Local Logon privilege to compromise the Core RDBMS, potentially resulting in unauthorized data access and partial denial of service.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected Versions: 12.1.0.2, 12.2.0.1, 18c, 19c
Product: Oracle Database
Vendor: Oracle Corporation

Exploitation Mechanism

Attack Complexity: Low
Attack Vector: Local
Privileges Required: Low
User Interaction: Required
Scope: Unchanged

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2020-2731 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply vendor-supplied patches promptly.
Monitor and restrict access to vulnerable systems.
Educate users on identifying and avoiding suspicious activities.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch software and systems.
Implement the principle of least privilege to limit access rights.
Conduct security training and awareness programs for employees.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security alerts and updates from Oracle Corporation.
Regularly check for patches and apply them to vulnerable systems.