CVE-2023-21980: Critical Vulnerability in MySQL Server - Exploit Details and Mitigation Steps

A recent vulnerability, CVE-2023-21980, was discovered in the MySQL Server product of Oracle MySQL (component: Client programs). This vulnerability affects supported versions 5.7.41 and prior, and 8..32 and prior. It is classified as difficult to exploit, allowing a low privileged attacker with network access via multiple protocols to compromise the MySQL Server. Successful attacks require human interaction from a person other than the attacker, and can result in taking over MySQL Server. The CVSS 3.1 Base Score for this vulnerability is 7.1, with Confidentiality, Integrity, and Availability impacts. The CVSS Vector is CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:H/PR:L/UI:R/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H.

Original References

1. Oracle Critical Patch Update Advisory - April 2023
2. MySQL Security Notes - April 2023
3. NVD - CVE-2023-21980

Exploit Details

The vulnerability resides in the client programs component of MySQL Server. A low privileged attacker can exploit this vulnerability by leveraging network access via multiple protocols. The attacker must convince a user to run specific commands or scripts, which can lead to the compromise of the MySQL Server.

Here is an example of a potentially vulnerable code snippet in MySQL

--connect (subcommand \c)
-- Returns or sets the default connection named pipe (Windows only)
if (pipe_name)
{
   strcpy(pipe_name, arg);
   mysql_options(&mysql,MYSQL_OPT_NAMED_PIPE,);
} else {
   puts(mysql_unix_port);
}

The above code is an example of code that may be vulnerable to an attacker who can inject malicious input, ultimately leading to a successful exploitation of the MySQL Server.

Mitigation Steps

To mitigate this vulnerability, it is recommended to apply the latest patches provided by Oracle as soon as possible. Updating to the latest version of MySQL Server will ensure that the vulnerability is fixed, protecting the system from potential exploits.

Conclusion

The CVE-2023-21980 vulnerability in MySQL Server has the potential to allow a low privileged attacker to take over the server. By staying informed about security threats and applying the necessary patches, organizations can help protect their systems and sensitive data from compromise. Regular monitoring and user education are essential to maintain strong security practices and minimizing the risk of vulnerabilities like this one.

Timeline

Published on: 04/18/2023 20:15:00 UTC
Last modified on: 04/27/2023 15:15:00 UTC