CVE-2017-14480 in MySQL Multi-Master Replication Manager
Summary
by MITRE
In the MMM::Agent::Helpers::Network::clear_ip function in MySQL Multi-Master Replication Manager (MMM) mmm_agentd 2.2.1 (for FreeBSD), a specially crafted MMM protocol message can cause a shell command injection resulting in arbitrary command execution with the privileges of the mmm\_agentd process. An attacker that can initiate a TCP session with mmm\_agentd can trigger this vulnerability.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/11/2023
The CVE-2017-14480 vulnerability represents a critical command injection flaw in MySQL Multi-Master Replication Manager (MMM) version 2.2.1 specifically affecting FreeBSD installations. This vulnerability exists within the MMM::Agent::Helpers::Network::clear_ip function, which processes network-related protocol messages exchanged between replication nodes. The flaw stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization of data received through the MMM protocol, creating an avenue for malicious actors to inject arbitrary shell commands directly into the system. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates at the agent daemon level, where the mmm_agentd process typically runs with elevated privileges necessary for database replication management operations.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through a carefully crafted MMM protocol message that is processed by the clear_ip function. When the mmm_agentd daemon receives such malicious input, it fails to properly sanitize the data before incorporating it into shell commands for execution. This improper handling creates a classic command injection scenario where attacker-controlled data becomes part of the command string executed by the system shell. The vulnerability is triggerable over TCP connections, meaning an attacker with network access to the mmm_agentd service can establish a session and send the malicious protocol message to initiate the injection attack. This attack vector aligns with CWE-77, which specifically addresses command injection vulnerabilities in software systems.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple privilege escalation, as the mmm_agentd process typically operates with sufficient privileges to perform critical database management functions. Successful exploitation could enable attackers to execute arbitrary commands with the same privileges as the daemon process, potentially leading to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, or disruption of database replication services. The vulnerability undermines the security posture of MySQL replication environments, as it allows remote attackers to gain unauthorized access to systems without requiring authentication credentials for the database itself. This makes the attack surface particularly broad for organizations relying on MMM for their multi-master replication configurations.
Security mitigations for this vulnerability should focus on immediate patching of the MMM software to version 2.2.2 or later, which contains the necessary input validation fixes. Network-level controls such as firewall rules restricting access to the mmm_agentd TCP ports can provide temporary protection while patches are deployed. Organizations should also implement network segmentation to limit access to replication management services to trusted administrative networks only. The remediation process should include comprehensive monitoring for unauthorized network connections to the affected service and review of system logs for evidence of exploitation attempts. Additionally, implementing principle of least privilege for the mmm_agentd process and regular security audits of replication configurations will help reduce the overall risk exposure. This vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation in network protocol handlers and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for command and scripting interpreter, highlighting the need for robust sanitization of all external inputs in system management components.