CVE-2013-1570 in MySQL Server
Summary
by MITRE
Unspecified vulnerability in Oracle MySQL 5.6.10 and earlier allows remote attackers to affect availability via unknown vectors related to MemCached.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/27/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2013-1570 represents a critical weakness in Oracle MySQL database systems affecting versions 5.6.10 and earlier. This issue specifically targets the MemCached component within the MySQL ecosystem, creating potential pathways for remote attackers to disrupt system availability. The unspecified nature of the vulnerability vectors indicates that the exact attack mechanisms remain partially obscured, though the impact on system availability suggests significant operational risks. The MemCached integration within MySQL serves as a caching layer to improve performance by storing frequently accessed data in memory, making this component a logical target for availability-focused attacks. The vulnerability's classification as affecting availability rather than confidentiality or integrity suggests that attackers could potentially cause denial of service conditions that would prevent legitimate users from accessing database services.
This weakness falls under the broader category of availability vulnerabilities that can severely impact database operations and enterprise infrastructure. The MemCached component in MySQL is designed to enhance performance by reducing database load through intelligent caching mechanisms, but when compromised, it can become a vector for disrupting these very services. The attack surface expands when considering that MemCached implementations often handle high volumes of data requests and can be configured to operate across network boundaries, making them attractive targets for distributed denial of service attacks. The vulnerability's presence in MySQL 5.6.10 and earlier versions indicates that this was a persistent issue affecting a significant portion of the MySQL user base during that time period, particularly given MySQL's widespread adoption in enterprise environments.
The operational impact of CVE-2013-1570 extends beyond simple service disruption to potentially compromise entire database infrastructures. When attackers exploit this vulnerability, they can cause cascading failures that affect not only the targeted database but also applications dependent on database connectivity. The MemCached component's role in caching can amplify the effects of an attack, as compromised cache data can propagate throughout the system, leading to widespread service degradation or complete unavailability. Organizations relying on MySQL for mission-critical applications face significant business continuity risks, as database availability is fundamental to most enterprise operations. The vulnerability's remote exploitability means that attackers do not require physical access or local network presence, making it particularly dangerous in cloud environments where database services are exposed to broader internet access.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2013-1570 must address both immediate patching requirements and long-term architectural improvements. The primary recommendation involves upgrading to MySQL versions that contain fixes for this vulnerability, specifically versions beyond 5.6.10 where Oracle has addressed the MemCached implementation issues. Organizations should also implement network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure of database services to untrusted networks. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of comprehensive security testing for caching components, as these elements often receive less scrutiny than core database functionality. Security teams should monitor for signs of exploitation attempts and implement intrusion detection systems that can identify anomalous MemCached traffic patterns. Additionally, regular vulnerability assessments should include evaluation of caching layer configurations to ensure that security best practices are maintained.
From a cybersecurity framework perspective, this vulnerability aligns with several ATT&CK tactics including privilege escalation and denial of service, though the specific techniques remain unspecified. The weakness could potentially map to CWE-119 for memory corruption issues or CWE-400 for resource exhaustion, depending on the precise exploitation method. Organizations should consider implementing the principle of least privilege for database access and maintain regular backup and recovery procedures to mitigate the impact of availability disruptions. The incident underscores the necessity of maintaining current security patches and the importance of understanding how third-party components like MemCached integrate with core database systems. Regular security awareness training for database administrators should emphasize the risks associated with caching mechanisms and the need for comprehensive vulnerability management processes. The vulnerability serves as a reminder that even components designed for performance enhancement can become security risks when not properly secured and maintained.