CVE-2026-28214: Medium Vulnerability in Firebird SQL

This vulnerability allows an authenticated user with INSERT privileges on any table to exploit a flaw in Firebird SQL, specifically in the ClumpletReader::getClumpletSize() function. The issue arises in versions prior to 5.0.4, 4.0.7, and 3.0.14, where a crafted Batch Parameter Block can cause an infinite loop, leading to a denial of service condition. Given the medium severity level, organizations should prioritize addressing this vulnerability.

The CVSS score for this vulnerability is 6.0, indicating a medium severity level. The attack vector is network-based, with low attack complexity and low privileges required, which means that the risk of exploitation is relatively high given the right conditions. Organizations running vulnerable versions of Firebird SQL should take immediate action to mitigate potential disruptions.

Risk to organizations includes potential downtime and performance issues due to the denial of service condition that can be exploited. It is important to note that this vulnerability has been patched in the latest versions of Firebird SQL, and organizations are advised to upgrade to mitigate the risk.

Organizations should prioritize patching immediately. Ensuring that the database systems are running on supported versions will help maintain operational integrity and prevent unauthorized disruptions.

Vulnerability Details

The vulnerability is described in detail as follows: Firebird is an open-source relational database management system. In versions prior to 5.0.4, 4.0.7, and 3.0.14, the ClumpletReader::getClumpletSize() function can overflow the totalLength value when parsing a Wide type clumplet, causing an infinite loop. This issue has been fixed in the mentioned versions.

The CWE classifications applicable to this vulnerability are CWE-190 (Integer Overflow or Wraparound) and CWE-835 (Infinite Loop). The CVSS score of 6.0 signifies a medium severity level due to the potential high impact on availability.

Technical Analysis

The root cause of this vulnerability stems from improper handling of input parameters within the ClumpletReader::getClumpletSize() function, which leads to an overflow condition during processing. This situation can be exploited by authenticated users who can craft specific Batch Parameter Blocks to trigger the overflow and subsequently cause the database server to enter an infinite loop.

The attack vector for this vulnerability is network-based, meaning it can be executed remotely. The attack complexity is low, requiring minimal effort to exploit. Additionally, the privileges required for exploitation are low, only necessitating INSERT privileges on any table, and no user interaction is needed.

The impact of this vulnerability primarily affects availability, as an attacker can cause the database server to hang or crash, potentially leading to significant downtime or service disruption.

Risk & Impact Analysis

Real-world deployment risk for this vulnerability is notable, as it allows authenticated users to disrupt database services without extensive effort. Organizations must recognize that even a single compromised account could lead to a denial of service, affecting availability for all users and applications relying on the database.

This vulnerability matters to organizations that utilize Firebird SQL, especially in environments where uptime is critical. The potential for significant service disruption highlights the need for prompt patching and monitoring.

The blast radius potential of this vulnerability is considerable, as multiple applications may rely on the same database instance. If exploited, the implications could extend beyond the database to impact the performance and availability of associated applications.

Given the CVSS score of 6.0, organizations should address this issue in their priority patch cycle to mitigate risks associated with this vulnerability.

Exploitation Status

Affected Versions

The affected versions of Firebird include all versions prior to 5.0.4, 4.0.7, and 3.0.14. Organizations running these versions should take immediate action to upgrade to the latest versions to secure their systems.

Mitigation & Remediation

To mitigate this vulnerability, organizations should upgrade to the latest versions of Firebird. The specific versions that address this issue are 5.0.4, 4.0.7, and 3.0.14. If immediate patching is not possible, organizations should implement strict access controls to limit authenticated user privileges and monitor database logs for any anomalous activity.

For ongoing security, organizations may consider engaging in penetration testing to identify similar weaknesses and ensure robust security measures are in place.

Detection Guidance

Organizations should monitor logs for signs of unusual activity, especially relating to Batch Parameter Block processing. Behavioral anomalies, such as unexpected server hangs or crashes, should be investigated immediately. Additionally, network signatures indicating exploit attempts should be identified and monitored.

AppSecure Threat Intelligence Insight

The long-term significance of this vulnerability highlights the importance of maintaining updated systems and proactively managing database security. The patterns of vulnerability exploitation indicate a growing trend towards targeting open-source database systems, which are often widely deployed but may lack timely updates.

Security teams can draw lessons from this incident by implementing a robust vulnerability management program, ensuring that all components are regularly assessed for weaknesses. Organizations should prioritize timely patching and continuous monitoring to mitigate risks effectively.

For more information on ensuring your database security, consider reviewing the vulnerability management program and the best practices outlined in our resources.

Additionally, organizations should consider implementing penetration testing methodology as a part of their security strategy to uncover potential vulnerabilities before they can be exploited.