CVE-2016-8647 in mysql_user Module
Summary
by MITRE
An input validation vulnerability was found in Ansible's mysql_user module before 2.2.1.0, which may fail to correctly change a password in certain circumstances. Thus the previous password would still be active when it should have been changed.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/25/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-8647 represents a critical input validation flaw within Ansible's mysql_user module affecting versions prior to 2.2.1.0. This issue stems from insufficient validation of user input during password change operations, creating a potential security risk that could allow unauthorized access to database accounts. The vulnerability specifically impacts automated deployment and configuration management systems that rely on Ansible for database user management tasks. From a security perspective, this flaw directly violates the principle of least privilege and could enable attackers to maintain access to database resources through outdated credentials.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs within the mysql_user module's password handling logic where input validation fails to properly sanitize or verify the password change parameters. When administrators or automated processes attempt to modify user passwords through Ansible playbooks, the module does not adequately validate whether the password change operation was successfully completed. This validation failure creates a scenario where the system may report successful password modification while the old password remains active, effectively rendering the intended security measure ineffective. The flaw operates at the application layer and specifically affects the authentication and authorization mechanisms within database management systems.
The operational impact of CVE-2016-8647 extends beyond simple credential exposure, as it undermines the integrity of automated security processes within enterprise environments. Organizations utilizing Ansible for database management may unknowingly maintain compromised access paths where legacy passwords remain functional despite apparent password changes. This vulnerability particularly affects environments where security audits rely on automated tools to ensure password rotation policies are properly enforced. The persistence of old passwords could enable attackers to maintain long-term access to sensitive database resources, potentially leading to data breaches, unauthorized data manipulation, or privilege escalation attacks.
Security mitigation strategies for CVE-2016-8647 require immediate patching of affected Ansible installations to version 2.2.1.0 or later, which includes corrected input validation logic for the mysql_user module. Organizations should implement comprehensive inventory management to identify all systems running vulnerable Ansible versions and conduct thorough security assessments of database access controls. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-20, which describes "Improper Input Validation," and demonstrates how inadequate validation can lead to authentication bypass scenarios. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to privilege escalation and credential access tactics, as it enables persistent access through compromised authentication mechanisms. Additionally, organizations should implement monitoring solutions to detect anomalous password change activities and establish verification procedures to ensure password modification operations complete successfully.