CVE-2006-0369 in MySQL
Summary
by MITRE
** DISPUTED ** MySQL 5.0.18 allows local users with access to a VIEW to obtain sensitive information via the "SELECT * FROM information_schema.views;" query, which returns the query that created the VIEW. NOTE: this issue has been disputed by third parties, saying that the availability of the schema is a normal and sometimes desired aspect of database access.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/07/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2006-0369 pertains to MySQL version 5.0.18 and involves a potential information disclosure issue through the information_schema views mechanism. This represents a security concern where local users who possess access to a VIEW within the database can exploit a specific query pattern to extract sensitive information that was not intended to be publicly accessible. The technical flaw manifests when a user executes the query "SELECT * FROM information_schema.views;" which reveals the underlying SQL statement used to create the VIEW in question. This behavior creates an unintended information disclosure channel that could potentially expose database design patterns, query logic, or other sensitive implementation details that should remain confidential within the database structure.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it can provide attackers with insights into database schema design and query construction patterns. When local users can access view creation statements through the information_schema, they gain knowledge about how database objects are constructed, potentially enabling more sophisticated attacks against the database infrastructure. This vulnerability particularly affects environments where multiple users have varying levels of access permissions, as it creates a scenario where users with limited privileges can obtain information that should remain restricted. The issue becomes more significant in multi-tenant or shared database environments where proper access controls are essential for maintaining data confidentiality and system integrity.
From a cybersecurity perspective, this vulnerability aligns with CWE-200, which addresses information exposure, and represents a classic case of insufficient access control mechanisms. The ATT&CK framework would categorize this under privilege escalation and information gathering techniques, as attackers could use this information to plan more targeted attacks against the database system. The disputed nature of this vulnerability stems from the argument that exposing database schema information through information_schema is a normal database behavior that some security professionals consider acceptable as it enables legitimate database administration and development activities. However, the concern arises when this exposure occurs without proper access controls, potentially allowing unauthorized users to gain insights into database structure that should remain confidential. Organizations implementing database security measures must carefully evaluate whether this behavior constitutes an acceptable risk or requires additional mitigation strategies to prevent unintended information disclosure. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper access control implementation and the need for organizations to establish clear policies regarding what information should be accessible through standard database querying mechanisms, particularly in environments where security through obscurity is an important component of the overall security posture.