Uncovering CVE-2023-22078: A Deep Dive into the MySQL Server Vulnerability

CVE-2023-22078 is a vulnerability affecting the MySQL Server product of Oracle MySQL, specifically the Server Optimizer component. The vulnerability impacts supported versions 8..34 and prior, as well as version 8.1.. This is an easily exploitable vulnerability that allows a high privileged attacker with network access via multiple protocols to compromise the MySQL Server. Successful attacks can result in unauthorized ability to cause a hang or frequently repeatable crash (complete DOS) of the MySQL Server. The CVSS 3.1 Base Score for this vulnerability is 4.9, primarily affecting availability. The CVSS Vector is as follows: (CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:H/UI:N/S:U/C:N/I:N/A:H).

Original References

The official CVE report: https://cve.mitre.org/cgi-bin/cvename.cgi?name=CVE-2023-22078

Oracle's Security Alert Advisory: https://www.oracle.com/security-alerts/alert-cve-2023-22078.html

Exploit Details

The vulnerability is found within the Server Optimizer component of the MySQL Server. This component is responsible for optimizing the SQL queries to make the database management system more efficient. However, it has been discovered that an attacker with high privileges (either as a MySQL user or as an administrator) can cause the optimizer to crash or hang the entire MySQL Server, leading to a complete denial of service (DOS) for other users.

Code Snippet

The following code snippet demonstrates a potential exploit that an attacker can use to trigger the vulnerability:

// DISCLAIMER: The following code is for educational purposes only. Do not use it in production environments or for malicious intent.

#include <stdio.h>
#include <mysql.h>

int main() {
   MYSQL *con = mysql_init(NULL);
   
   if (con == NULL) {
      fprintf(stderr, "%s\n", mysql_error(con));
      return 1;
   }
   
   if (mysql_real_connect(con, "localhost", "root", "password", "dbname", , NULL, ) == NULL) {
      fprintf(stderr, "%s\n", mysql_error(con));
      mysql_close(con);
      return 1;
   }

   if (mysql_query(con, "/* MALICIOUS QUERY TO TRIGGER OPTIMIZER VULNERABILITY */")) {
      fprintf(stderr, "%s\n", mysql_error(con));
      mysql_close(con);
      return 1;
   }

   mysql_close(con);
   return ;
}

Mitigation

To prevent exploitation of this vulnerability, it is crucial to update your MySQL Server to the latest version, 8..34 (or the latest patch available for your specific version). Additionally, ensure that access to your MySQL server is restricted and only granted to trusted users with the appropriate privileges.

To upgrade your MySQL server, follow the official documentation: https://dev.mysql.com/doc/refman/8./en/upgrading.html

Conclusion

CVE-2023-22078 is a serious vulnerability affecting the MySQL Server product, allowing attackers to cause complete denial of service. By staying informed about the latest security updates and promptly deploying patches, administrators can improve the security of their MySQL Server installations and prevent potential attacks.

Timeline

Published on: 10/17/2023 22:15:00 UTC
Last modified on: 10/27/2023 15:15:00 UTC