CVE-2005-1636 in MySQL
Summary
by MITRE
mysql_install_db in MySQL 4.1.x before 4.1.12 and 5.x up to 5.0.4 creates the mysql_install_db.X file with a predictable filename and insecure permissions, which allows local users to execute arbitrary SQL commands by modifying the file s contents.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/02/2025
The vulnerability described in CVE-2005-1636 represents a critical security flaw in MySQL database installations that affects versions 4.1.x before 4.1.12 and 5.x up to 5.0.4. This issue specifically targets the mysql_install_db utility which is responsible for initializing the MySQL system database and creating essential configuration files during the installation process. The vulnerability stems from the predictable naming convention and insecure permission settings applied to temporary files created during this initialization phase, creating a significant attack surface for local privilege escalation.
The technical flaw manifests through the creation of a file named mysql_install_db.X with predictable naming patterns and inadequate permission controls that allow local attackers to manipulate the file contents. When MySQL executes the installation process, it generates this temporary file to store critical initialization data including SQL commands that will be executed during database setup. Due to the insecure permissions, any local user with access to the system can modify this file before the installation completes, effectively allowing them to inject malicious SQL commands that will be executed with the privileges of the MySQL installation process.
This vulnerability directly maps to CWE-276, which describes improper file permissions, and represents a classic example of insecure temporary file handling in database management systems. The operational impact of this flaw is severe as it enables local users to execute arbitrary SQL commands with elevated privileges, potentially leading to complete system compromise. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to gain unauthorized access to database contents, modify or delete critical system data, and establish persistent backdoors within the database environment. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it requires no network connectivity and can be exploited through local system access alone, making it difficult to detect and prevent.
The attack vector involves a local user who can manipulate the temporary file before MySQL processes it, effectively allowing them to inject malicious SQL commands that will be executed during the installation. This creates a privilege escalation scenario where a low-privileged user can gain administrative access to the MySQL database system. The vulnerability affects the integrity and confidentiality of database operations, as attackers can modify database contents, extract sensitive information, or even corrupt the entire database installation. Organizations using affected MySQL versions face significant risk of data breaches and unauthorized system access when this vulnerability remains unpatched.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2005-1636 include immediate patching of MySQL installations to versions 4.1.12 or 5.0.4 and later, which address the insecure file creation and permission handling issues. System administrators should also implement proper file permission controls and monitor for unauthorized modifications to MySQL installation directories. Additional protective measures include restricting local access to MySQL installation files, implementing proper access controls for the mysql_install_db utility, and conducting regular security audits of database system configurations. The vulnerability highlights the importance of secure temporary file handling practices in database software and underscores the need for proper privilege separation during installation processes. Organizations should also consider implementing monitoring solutions that can detect unauthorized file modifications to prevent exploitation of similar vulnerabilities in the future. This issue demonstrates the critical importance of proper file permission management and secure temporary file creation in database systems, aligning with security best practices outlined in various industry standards including those from the Center for Internet Security and NIST guidelines for database security.