CVE-2024-27766: Potential Remote Code Execution Vulnerability in MariaDB v.11.1 through the lib_mysqludf_sys.so Function

In this post, we will discuss the details of a potential security vulnerability (CVE-2024-27766) in MariaDB v.11.1, which may allow a remote attacker to execute arbitrary code on the target system through the lib_mysqludf_sys.so function. This vulnerability has been disputed by the MariaDB Foundation since they claim that no privilege boundary is being crossed. Regardless, it is important to be aware of potential security concerns and ensure that your systems are adequately protected.

Background

MariaDB is an open-source database management system, widely used as a replacement for the MySQL database. It has become popular for its performance and scalability features. Like any software, MariaDB can be exposed to vulnerabilities that may allow attackers to exploit it for malicious purposes.

Description of the Vulnerability

The vulnerability in question (CVE-2024-27766) affects MariaDB v.11.1 and is related to the lib_mysqludf_sys.so library, which can be utilized by an attacker to remotely execute arbitrary code on the target system.

The lib_mysqludf_sys library contains user-defined SQL functions that enable system command execution. In certain configurations of MariaDB, it may be possible for an attacker to use SQL injection or other attack vectors to call these system functions and execute code on the target system.

Dispute by the MariaDB Foundation

The MariaDB Foundation has disputed this vulnerability, stating that no privilege boundary is crossed. In essence, they argue that the potential attack would require an attacker to have the same level of privileges as the MariaDB process itself. In such a case, an attacker could undoubtedly cause considerable damage, but the presence of the lib_mysqludf_sys.so library would not introduce any additional risk.

Code Snippet Example

The following code snippet demonstrates how the vulnerability could potentially be exploited by an attacker to execute arbitrary system commands:

-- Create the required user-defined function (UDF) udf_system
DROP FUNCTION IF EXISTS udf_system;
CREATE FUNCTION udf_system RETURNS INTEGER SONAME 'lib_mysqludf_sys.so';

-- Execute an arbitrary system command 'touch exploit.txt' using the UDF
SELECT udf_system('touch /tmp/exploit.txt');

In this example, an attacker could potentially replace the 'touch /tmp/exploit.txt' command with any system command that they wish to execute.

Original References and Links

- MariaDB Foundation's statement disputing the vulnerability: MariaDB's Official Blog

- Original source for reporting the vulnerability: ExampleCVEReport

- Discussion of the vulnerability on the MariaDB mailing list: MariaDB Mailing List

Conclusion and Recommendations

It is essential to stay informed about potential security vulnerabilities, even if they are disputed. In the case of CVE-2024-27766, the MariaDB Foundation has argued that the vulnerability is not a valid concern, as no privilege boundary is crossed.

Regardless of the dispute, it is a good idea to review the configuration of your MariaDB installation and ensure that potentially dangerous user-defined functions (UDFs), like those provided by the lib_mysqludf_sys.so library, are not accessible to untrusted users.

Moreover, it is crucial to keep your MariaDB installation up-to-date, apply security patches as they become available, and follow security best practices for deploying and maintaining database systems.

Timeline

Published on: 10/17/2024 22:15:02 UTC
Last modified on: 10/21/2024 00:15:12 UTC