CVE-2010-1626 in MySQL
Summary
by MITRE
MySQL before 5.1.46 allows local users to delete the data and index files of another user s MyISAM table via a symlink attack in conjunction with the DROP TABLE command, a different vulnerability than CVE-2008-4098 and CVE-2008-7247.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/14/2021
This vulnerability in MySQL versions prior to 5.1.46 represents a critical privilege escalation and data integrity issue that exploits weak file system permissions and symlink handling mechanisms. The flaw specifically affects MyISAM table storage engine implementations where local users can manipulate symbolic links to gain unauthorized access to other users' database files. This vulnerability operates through a sophisticated attack vector that combines symlink manipulation with the DROP TABLE command, creating a scenario where malicious users can delete critical database files belonging to different system accounts. The attack leverages the fact that MySQL does not properly validate file paths when processing DROP TABLE operations, particularly when dealing with symbolic links that point to files outside the intended database directory structure.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and path resolution mechanisms within MySQL's file handling routines. When a DROP TABLE command is executed, the system should verify that the target files exist within the expected database directories and that symbolic links are properly resolved to prevent unauthorized file access. However, older MySQL versions fail to properly sanitize these operations, allowing attackers to create malicious symlinks that point to sensitive files in other users' directories. This creates a privilege escalation pathway where local users can effectively bypass normal access controls and delete critical data structures, including both table data files (.frm) and index files (.MYI). The vulnerability specifically impacts MyISAM tables because this storage engine handles file operations differently than InnoDB or other transactional engines, making it more susceptible to this class of symlink-based attacks.
The operational impact of CVE-2010-1626 extends beyond simple data deletion to encompass complete database integrity compromise and potential service disruption. Attackers can use this vulnerability to destroy databases belonging to other users, potentially causing catastrophic data loss across multi-tenant environments where multiple users share the same MySQL instance. This vulnerability is particularly dangerous in shared hosting environments, cloud deployments, or any scenario where multiple user accounts operate on the same MySQL server without proper isolation mechanisms. The attack can be executed with minimal privileges, making it an attractive target for malicious actors who may not have direct access to administrative accounts but can still cause significant damage through this indirect method. Additionally, the vulnerability creates a persistent threat where attackers can repeatedly exploit the flaw to delete files, potentially causing cascading failures in database operations and system stability.
Security mitigations for this vulnerability require immediate patching of MySQL installations to version 5.1.46 or later, which includes proper symlink validation and file path resolution improvements. Organizations should implement strict file system permissions and ensure that MySQL processes run with minimal required privileges to limit potential damage from such attacks. The principle of least privilege should be enforced at both the operating system level and within MySQL itself, with proper user account isolation and database schema management. Additionally, system administrators should monitor for suspicious file access patterns and implement intrusion detection systems that can identify potential symlink manipulation attempts. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-367, which addresses Time-of-Check to Time-of-Use (TOCTOU) vulnerabilities, and maps to ATT&CK technique T1068, which covers exploit for privilege escalation. Organizations should also consider implementing database activity monitoring solutions that can detect anomalous DROP TABLE operations and validate file system integrity. The remediation process should include comprehensive security auditing of database installations to identify any other potential symlink-based vulnerabilities in the system configuration.