CVE-2001-1454 in MySQL
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in MySQL before 3.23.33 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a long drop database request.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/17/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2001-1454 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw within MySQL database management systems prior to version 3.23.33. This security weakness resides in the handling of database drop operations and provides remote attackers with the capability to execute arbitrary code on affected systems. The flaw specifically manifests when processing excessively long drop database requests, creating a condition where input data exceeds the allocated buffer space and overflows into adjacent memory regions. This type of vulnerability falls under the category of CWE-121, which encompasses buffer overflow conditions where insufficient bounds checking allows attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations. The attack vector is particularly dangerous as it operates over network connections, enabling remote exploitation without requiring local system access or authentication credentials.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits the lack of proper input validation within MySQL's database management protocols. When a maliciously crafted drop database request is sent to the vulnerable MySQL server, the system fails to properly validate the length of the database name parameter. This insufficient bounds checking allows an attacker to supply a string that exceeds the predetermined buffer size allocated for database name handling. The overflow occurs in the server's memory management routines where the database name is copied into a fixed-size buffer without adequate length verification. This memory corruption can potentially overwrite critical program variables, return addresses, or function pointers, enabling attackers to redirect program execution flow and inject malicious code. The vulnerability demonstrates characteristics consistent with CWE-787, which addresses out-of-bounds write conditions that can lead to arbitrary code execution.
The operational impact of CVE-2001-1454 extends beyond simple data compromise to encompass complete system control and potential data destruction. Remote attackers who successfully exploit this vulnerability can gain unauthorized access to database servers and execute arbitrary commands with the privileges of the MySQL service account. This level of access can enable attackers to extract sensitive database information, modify or delete critical data, create new user accounts, or establish persistent backdoors within the affected systems. The vulnerability is particularly concerning in enterprise environments where MySQL servers often operate with elevated privileges and contain valuable organizational data. Attackers can leverage this weakness to perform reconnaissance activities, escalate privileges, and potentially move laterally within network infrastructures. The exploitability of this vulnerability is enhanced by the fact that it requires minimal authentication and can be executed through standard network protocols, making it an attractive target for automated exploitation tools and mass scanning campaigns.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2001-1454 focus primarily on immediate patching and system hardening measures. The most effective remediation involves upgrading to MySQL version 3.23.33 or later, which includes proper input validation and buffer size limitations for database name handling. Organizations should implement network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure of database servers to untrusted networks while ensuring that only authorized systems can communicate with MySQL services. Additional protective measures include enabling firewall rules that restrict database port access to trusted IP addresses, implementing intrusion detection systems to monitor for suspicious database activity, and conducting regular security audits of database configurations. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of input validation and bounds checking as fundamental security practices, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and script injection. System administrators should also consider implementing database activity monitoring and logging mechanisms to detect potential exploitation attempts and maintain audit trails for forensic analysis. Regular vulnerability assessments and security testing should be conducted to identify and remediate similar buffer overflow conditions that may exist in other database components or applications within the organization's infrastructure.