Critical SUSE Linux security update: Patch CVE-2017-11509 in Firebird database now. This important-rated vulnerability allows authenticated remote code execution (RCE) with high CVSS scores of 8.8-9.9. Learn which SUSE & openSUSE products are affected and get the exact zypper patch commands to secure your systems immediately.
Security Rating: IMPORTANT | CVSS Score: Up to 9.9 (Critical)
A critical security vulnerability, designated CVE-2017-11509, has been addressed in the Firebird relational database management system deployed across the SUSE Linux ecosystem.
This vulnerability, classified with an "important" severity rating, poses a significant risk of authenticated remote code execution (RCE), potentially granting attackers full control over affected database servers.
System administrators running SUSE Linux Enterprise Server (SLES), openSUSE Leap, or related products must apply this patch immediately to mitigate a serious threat to their data integrity and system security.
The core of the exploit involves a flaw in how Firebird handles external functions. An attacker with authenticated database access could define a malicious external function that deliberately mismatches the original entry point definition.
This inconsistency can be weaponized to execute arbitrary code on the underlying host operating system with the privileges of the Firebird server process. In today's interconnected cloud environments, where databases are high-value targets, such a weakness cannot be overlooked.
Technical Breakdown of CVE-2017-11509 and Its Exploit Impact
Understanding the mechanism of this cybersecurity threat is crucial for appreciating its severity. The Common Vulnerability Scoring System (CVSS) v3.1 grants this flaw a base score of 8.8 (High), while SUSE's assessment under CVSS v3.0 rates it a 9.9 (Critical) due to different environmental considerations. The vectors break down as follows:
Attack Vector (AV): Network (N) - Exploitable remotely over a network.
Attack Complexity (AC): Low (L) - Requires no special conditions; the attack is straightforward.
Privileges Required (PR): Low (L) - Needs user-level authentication, not administrative rights.
User Interaction (UI): None (N) - The victim does not need to perform any action.
Impact: Leads to total loss of Confidentiality, Integrity, and Availability (C:H/I:H/A:H).
What does this mean in practice? If your organization uses Firebird for applications like legacy ERP systems, specialized databases, or internal tools, a single compromised user account could serve as a springboard for a complete system takeover.
This underscores the non-negotiable need for robust identity and access management (IAM) policies alongside prompt patch application.
Affected Products: Is Your SUSE or openSUSE Distribution Vulnerable?
The following SUSE Linux distributions and modules are confirmed to be affected by this critical security flaw and require the update. This comprehensive list ensures administrators can quickly identify their at-risk assets.
SUSE Linux Enterprise Server: Versions 15 SP6 and 15 SP7
SUSE Linux Enterprise Server for SAP Applications: Versions 15 SP6 and 15 SP7
SUSE Linux Enterprise Desktop: Versions 15 SP6 and 15 SP7
SUSE Linux Enterprise Real Time: Versions 15 SP6 and 15 SP7
SUSE Package Hub 15: Modules for SP6 and SP7
openSUSE Leap: Version 15.6
Step-by-Step Patch Instructions: Securing Your System
Applying the patch is a straightforward process using SUSE's standard package management tools. The recommended method is to use the zypper patch command or the YaST online update module, which will automatically resolve all dependencies and apply the correct update.
For those who need to apply the patch directly via the command line, use the specific command for your product:
For openSUSE Leap 15.6:
zypper in -t patch openSUSE-SLE-15.6-2025-3095=1For SUSE Package Hub 15 SP6:
zypper in -t patch SUSE-SLE-Module-Packagehub-Subpackages-15-SP6-2025-3095=1For SUSE Package Hub 15 SP7:
zypper in -t patch SUSE-SLE-Module-Packagehub-Subpackages-15-SP7-2025-3095=1
Pro Tip: Always test security patches in a staging environment that mirrors your production setup before deploying them enterprise-wide. This best practice helps avoid unforeseen compatibility issues with custom applications.
Comprehensive Package List and Update Details
The update transitions the Firebird package to version 3.0.4.33054-150200.3.6.1. The following packages are updated across the various architectures (aarch64, ppc64le, s390x, x86_64):
firebird
firebird-server
firebird-utils
firebird-examples
firebird-doc (noarch)
libfbclient2
libfbclient-devel
libib_util
libib_util-devel
...and all corresponding debuginfo and debugsource packages.
For 32-bit environments on x86_64, the update also includes libfbclient2-32bit and libib_util-32bit packages. After applying the update, it is advisable to restart the Firebird service to ensure the new libraries are loaded into memory.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: My server doesn't have Firebird installed. Am I still vulnerable?
A: No. The vulnerability only exists if the firebird package is installed on your system. You can verify this with the command zypper se --installed-only firebird.
Q2: This CVE is from 2017. Why is it being patched now in 2025?
A: This is an excellent question that touches on software supply chain security. The vulnerability was discovered in the upstream Firebird project in 2017. However, it was only recently identified and tracked (bsc#1087421) as affecting the specific version packaged and maintained in the SUSE Linux distribution. This highlights the ongoing importance of vendor-specific security maintenance.
Q3: What is the difference between the NVD and SUSE CVSS scores?
A: The National Vulnerability Database (NVD) provides a generic base score (8.8). SUSE's security team performs an additional analysis considering how the software is implemented and used within their specific distribution, which sometimes results in a modified score (9.9) due to a higher environmental impact.
Q4: Where can I find more official information?
A: Always refer to primary sources for the most accurate data:
Official SUSE CVE Page: https://www.suse.com/security/cve/CVE-2017-11509.html
SUSE Bugzilla Entry (bsc#1087421): https://bugzilla.suse.com/show_bug.cgi?id=1087421
Conclusion: Proactive Security is Non-Negotiable
The patching of CVE-2017-11509 is a mandatory action for all administrators within the SUSE Linux environment. In the realm of cybersecurity hygiene, timely application of patches for RCE vulnerabilities is one of the most effective controls against potential breaches.
Do not allow a known exploit to remain unpatched on your systems. Review your assets, verify your patch levels, and secure your Firebird deployments today to maintain the trustworthiness and resilience of your IT infrastructure.
Action: Schedule a maintenance window today to apply this patch. Furthermore, use this event as a catalyst to review your overall patch management policy and ensure you are subscribed to security announcements from your OS vendors.
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