CVE-2026-46852 Overview
CVE-2026-46852 is a critical vulnerability in the Oracle Enterprise Manager Base Platform, specifically within the Metadata Plugin component. The flaw affects supported versions 13.5 and 24.1. A low-privileged attacker with network access via HTTPS can exploit this issue to compromise the platform.
The vulnerability carries a scope change, meaning successful exploitation can significantly impact additional products beyond the initial target. Successful attacks result in complete takeover of the Oracle Enterprise Manager Base Platform. The weakness is classified under CWE-269: Improper Privilege Management.
Critical Impact
Authenticated attackers can fully compromise Oracle Enterprise Manager Base Platform and pivot to additional connected products through scope change.
Affected Products
- Oracle Enterprise Manager Base Platform 13.5.0.0
- Oracle Enterprise Manager Base Platform 24.1.0.0.0
- Metadata Plugin component
Discovery Timeline
- 2026-06-17 - CVE-2026-46852 published to NVD
- 2026-06-18 - Last updated in NVD database
- June 2026 - Oracle releases security patch via Critical Security Patch Update
Technical Details for CVE-2026-46852
Vulnerability Analysis
The vulnerability resides in the Metadata Plugin component of Oracle Enterprise Manager Base Platform. Oracle Enterprise Manager (OEM) is a centralized management console for monitoring and administering Oracle databases, middleware, and infrastructure. A compromise of this platform grants attackers control over downstream managed systems.
The flaw allows a low-privileged authenticated user to escalate privileges and take over the platform. The scope change indicator means the impact extends beyond the vulnerable component to other security authorities within the environment. Attack complexity is low, and no user interaction is required beyond initial authentication.
Root Cause
The vulnerability stems from improper privilege management within the Metadata Plugin [CWE-269]. The component fails to correctly enforce authorization boundaries between privilege levels. Authenticated users with minimal rights can perform actions reserved for administrators, leading to full platform takeover.
Attack Vector
An attacker requires network access via HTTPS and a valid low-privileged account on the target Oracle Enterprise Manager instance. The attacker sends crafted requests to the Metadata Plugin endpoints to abuse the privilege management flaw. Because the scope changes, the compromise can cascade to managed databases, middleware, and other Oracle products integrated with the platform.
No verified proof-of-concept code is publicly available. Refer to the Oracle Security Alert for vendor-confirmed technical details.
Detection Methods for CVE-2026-46852
Indicators of Compromise
- Unexpected HTTPS requests to Metadata Plugin endpoints from low-privileged accounts
- New administrative roles or privilege grants assigned to non-admin accounts in OEM
- Anomalous job execution or configuration changes within Enterprise Manager
- Authentication events for low-privileged users followed by administrative actions in OEM audit logs
Detection Strategies
- Monitor OEM audit logs for privilege escalation events and unusual role modifications
- Correlate web server access logs against user privilege levels to detect mismatches
- Baseline normal Metadata Plugin activity and alert on deviations
- Inspect HTTPS traffic to OEM hosts for malformed or suspicious plugin requests
Monitoring Recommendations
- Enable verbose auditing on OEM Repository database and OMS components
- Forward Oracle Enterprise Manager logs to a centralized SIEM for correlation
- Alert on creation of new SYSMAN-level privileges or super administrator accounts
- Track outbound connections from OEM hosts that could indicate post-compromise lateral movement
How to Mitigate CVE-2026-46852
Immediate Actions Required
- Apply the Oracle Critical Security Patch Update referenced in the June 2026 Oracle Security Alert
- Inventory all Oracle Enterprise Manager Base Platform instances running versions 13.5 and 24.1
- Restrict network access to OEM management consoles to trusted administrative networks
- Review and reduce the number of low-privileged accounts with access to OEM
Patch Information
Oracle addressed CVE-2026-46852 in the Critical Patch Update published in June 2026. Administrators should consult the Oracle Security Alert for the specific patch identifiers applicable to versions 13.5 and 24.1. Apply patches in non-production environments first to validate compatibility before rolling out to production OEM deployments.
Workarounds
- Enforce network segmentation and place OEM behind a bastion host or VPN
- Audit and remove unnecessary user accounts on OEM instances pending patch deployment
- Apply the principle of least privilege to all OEM roles and disable unused plugin functionality where supported
- Enable multi-factor authentication for all OEM administrative access
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
