CVE-2005-0710 in mysql
Summary
by MITRE
mysql 4.0.23 and earlier and 4.1.x up to 4.1.10 allows remote authenticated users with insert and delete privileges to bypass library path restrictions and execute arbitrary libraries by using insert into to modify the mysql.func table which is processed by the udf_init function.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/27/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2005-0710 represents a critical privilege escalation flaw in mysql database versions 4.0.23 and earlier, as well as 4.1.x versions up to 4.1.10. This vulnerability specifically targets the database's handling of user-defined functions and library path restrictions, creating a pathway for authenticated attackers to execute arbitrary code on the target system. The flaw stems from insufficient validation of library paths when processing user-defined functions through the mysql.func table, which is processed by the udf_init function. Attackers with insert and delete privileges can exploit this weakness to modify the mysql.func table and subsequently load malicious shared libraries into the database environment.
The technical exploitation mechanism relies on the database's ability to dynamically load shared libraries through user-defined functions, a feature designed for legitimate extension capabilities. However, the vulnerability occurs because the mysql.func table modification process does not properly validate the library paths specified by attackers. When an attacker with appropriate privileges executes an insert statement to modify the mysql.func table, they can specify a malicious library path that will be processed by the udf_init function during database operations. This creates a direct code execution vector that bypasses normal security restrictions, allowing attackers to load and execute arbitrary shared libraries on the database server. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-264 as "Permissions, Privileges, and Access Controls" and specifically relates to improper restriction of operations within a security domain.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability poses significant risks to database security and system integrity. An attacker who gains access to a database with insert privileges can escalate their access to full system control, as the executed libraries can perform any operation available to the database user account. The attack can lead to data theft, system compromise, and potential lateral movement within the network. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it requires only basic database privileges that many legitimate users possess, making it accessible to both internal and external attackers who have gained database access. This flaw directly violates the principle of least privilege and can be leveraged as a stepping stone for more extensive attacks within the network infrastructure.
The recommended mitigations for this vulnerability include immediate patching of affected mysql versions to 4.1.11 or later, where the issue has been resolved through proper validation of library paths in the mysql.func table processing. Organizations should also implement strict access controls and privilege management, ensuring that database users have the minimum necessary permissions to perform their required functions. Database administrators should regularly audit the mysql.func table and monitor for unauthorized modifications, while implementing network segmentation and monitoring solutions to detect suspicious database activities. Additionally, the principle of least privilege should be enforced by restricting insert and delete privileges on system tables, and regular security assessments should be conducted to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities in database systems. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1055.001 for privilege escalation through dynamic-link library injection, making it a critical target for security hardening efforts in database environments.