CVE-2012-1757 in MySQL Server
Summary
by MITRE
Unspecified vulnerability in Oracle MySQL Server 5.5.23 and earlier allows remote authenticated users to affect availability via unknown vectors related to InnoDB.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/26/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2012-1757 represents a critical weakness in Oracle MySQL Server versions 5.5.23 and earlier, specifically within the InnoDB storage engine component. This unspecified flaw exists in the database management system's handling of InnoDB transactions and data structures, creating potential pathways for remote attackers who possess valid authentication credentials to disrupt system availability. The vulnerability's classification as "unspecified" indicates that the exact technical mechanism remains partially undisclosed, though it clearly impacts the core database engine's stability and operational integrity.
The technical nature of this vulnerability lies within the InnoDB storage engine's processing of database transactions and concurrent access patterns. InnoDB's multi-version concurrency control system and transaction handling mechanisms appear to contain a weakness that can be exploited through authenticated remote connections. Attackers with valid login credentials can leverage this vulnerability to cause database server instability, leading to service disruption and potential denial of service conditions. The flaw likely involves improper handling of transaction states, lock management, or memory allocation within InnoDB's internal structures, though the specific vector remains classified.
The operational impact of CVE-2012-1757 extends beyond simple service interruption to potentially compromise database integrity and availability. When exploited, the vulnerability can cause MySQL server processes to crash or become unresponsive, effectively denying legitimate users access to critical database resources. This represents a significant risk for enterprise environments where MySQL serves as a foundational component for business applications, financial systems, or customer data repositories. Organizations may experience extended downtime, data access restrictions, and potential business disruption during exploitation periods.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigation strategies including applying the latest Oracle security patches and updates specifically addressing this vulnerability. System administrators must ensure all MySQL installations are upgraded to versions that contain the necessary fixes for the InnoDB storage engine. Additionally, implementing network segmentation and access controls can limit the potential attack surface by restricting unauthorized access to database systems. Monitoring and logging of database connections and transaction patterns can help detect anomalous behavior that might indicate exploitation attempts. This vulnerability aligns with attack patterns described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under database attack techniques and represents a weakness categorized under CWE-119 for memory-related issues in database systems.