CVE-2001-0407 in MySQL
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in MySQL before 3.23.36 allows local users to modify arbitrary files and gain privileges by creating a database whose name starts with .. (dot dot).
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/13/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2001-0407 represents a critical directory traversal flaw in MySQL database management systems prior to version 3.23.36. This weakness stems from insufficient input validation mechanisms within the database engine's file system operations, specifically when processing database names that contain directory traversal sequences. The flaw allows malicious local users to exploit the system's path resolution logic by creating database names that begin with double dot sequences, effectively bypassing normal file system access controls and permissions.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs at the database creation phase where MySQL fails to properly sanitize database names before translating them into file system paths. When a user creates a database with a name starting with "..", the system interprets this as a request to traverse up the directory hierarchy, potentially allowing access to files and directories outside the intended database storage area. This represents a classic path traversal vulnerability that maps directly to CWE-22, which categorizes improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory. The flaw operates at the operating system level where database files are stored, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited to modify critical system files or gain elevated privileges.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file access, as it can be leveraged to achieve privilege escalation and persistent access to the underlying system. Local attackers who can create databases can use this flaw to modify system configuration files, inject malicious code into database processes, or manipulate the database engine's own executable files. This creates a significant risk for database administrators who may not properly isolate database processes from system-level access. The vulnerability is particularly concerning in multi-user environments where database creation privileges are not properly restricted, as it allows any user with basic database creation rights to potentially compromise the entire system.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2001-0407 require immediate patching of affected MySQL installations to version 3.23.36 or later, which implements proper input validation for database names. System administrators should also implement strict access controls and privilege separation, ensuring that database creation operations are restricted to trusted users only. Additional protective measures include monitoring database creation activities, implementing file system permissions that prevent unauthorized access to critical directories, and conducting regular security audits of database configurations. Organizations should also consider implementing intrusion detection systems that can identify suspicious database creation patterns and potential exploitation attempts. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to techniques involving privilege escalation and persistence, specifically T1068 and T1078, making it a critical target for defensive measures. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the importance of input validation and proper path resolution in database systems, particularly in environments where local access is not strictly controlled.