Information
Oracle-maintained accounts should not be created. The ORACLE_MAINTAINED flag is used to identify such accounts. Only users provided by Oracle should have this flag set to Y Custom database users should not be assigned this designation.
Oracle-maintained accounts are used by internal tools, database packages, procedures, and third-party software to make critical decisions. For example:
- Data Pump often excludes objects marked as ORACLE_MAINTAINED
- Oracle upgrades and patches may modify or delete objects marked with this flag.
- Custom schemas should not use this flag, as it can lead to unintended system behavior, including unauthorized modifications during maintenance activities.
Some organizations attempt to create custom ORACLE_MAINTAINED users to bypass the C## -prefix requirement for common users. However, misusing this flag can introduce security risks and operational issues. It can impact proper functioning and integrity of Oracle databases.
Solution
To remediate this setting, execute the following SQL statement.
DROP USER <USERNAME>;
Impact:
Dropping a user may result in data loss or impact application availability, requiring thorough assessment before taking action. You may need to export all objects owned by common users in the CDB and all PDBs before making changes.
DROP USER <USERNAME>;