Last revised: --
Source: CERT/CC
A complete revision history is at the end of this file.
A vulnerability in Oracle 8i allows remote intruders to assume
control of database servers running on victim machines. If the Oracle
server is running on a Windows system, an intruder may also be able to
gain control of the underlying operating system.
The COVERT labs at PGP
Security have discovered a buffer overflow vulnerability in Oracle 8i
that allows intruders to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of
the TNS listener process. The vulnerability occurs in a section of
code that is executed prior to authentication, so an intruder does not
require a username or password.
For more information, see the COVERT Labs Security Advisory,
available at
An intruder who exploits the vulnerability can remotely execute
arbitrary code. On UNIX systems, this code runs as the 'oracle' user.
If running on Windows systems, the intruder's code will run in the
Local System security context.
In either case, the attacker can gain control of the database
server on the victim machine. On Windows systems, the intruder can
also gain administrative control of the operating system.
Install a patch from Oracle. More information is available in
Appendix A.
Oracle has fixed this potential security vulnerability in the Oracle9i
database server. Oracle is in the process of backporting the fix to
supported Oracle8i database server Releases 8.1.7 and 8.1.6 and
Oracle8 Release 8.0.6 on all platforms. The Oracle bug number for the
patch is 1489683.
Download the patch for your platform from Oracle's Worldwide Support
web site, Metalink:
Our thanks to COVERT Labs at PGP Security
for the information contained in their advisory. Systems Affected
Overview
I. Description
II. Impact
III. Solutions
Appendix A
Oracle
Oracle has issued an alert for this vulnerability at
This document was written by Shawn V. Hernan. If you have feedback concerning this document, please send email to:
Copyright 2001 Carnegie Mellon University.
Revision History
July 03, 2001: Initial Release