CVE-2017-14481 in MySQL Multi-Master Replication Manager
Summary
by MITRE
In the MMM::Agent::Helpers::Network::send_arp function in MySQL Multi-Master Replication Manager (MMM) mmm_agentd 2.2.1 (for Solaris), 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-2017-14481 vulnerability represents a critical command injection flaw within MySQL Multi-Master Replication Manager version 2.2.1, specifically affecting the MMM::Agent::Helpers::Network::send_arp function. This vulnerability exists in the mmm_agentd daemon running on Solaris systems and demonstrates a fundamental failure in input validation and command construction within the replication management framework. The flaw allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary commands with elevated privileges by crafting malicious MMM protocol messages, making it particularly dangerous in networked environments where replication management is critical for database operations.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper handling of user-supplied data within the network communication layer of the MMM agent. When the send_arp function processes incoming protocol messages, it fails to adequately sanitize or validate the input parameters before incorporating them into shell commands. This creates a classic command injection scenario where attacker-controlled data flows directly into system execution contexts. The vulnerability specifically manifests when an attacker can establish a TCP connection to the mmm_agentd service, allowing them to send crafted protocol messages that bypass normal input validation mechanisms and directly influence command construction.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-14481 extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as the compromised mmm_agentd process typically operates with elevated system privileges necessary for database replication management. This means successful exploitation could lead to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, or disruption of critical database services. The vulnerability affects the broader MySQL replication ecosystem, potentially compromising multiple database servers that rely on MMM for multi-master configuration management. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to gain unauthorized access to sensitive database information, modify replication configurations, or establish persistent access points within the database infrastructure.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patching of affected MMM installations to version 2.2.2 or later, which includes proper input validation and sanitization mechanisms. Network segmentation and access control measures should be implemented to restrict TCP connections to the mmm_agentd service to trusted networks only, limiting the attack surface. Additionally, monitoring and logging of network connections to the mmm_agentd service should be enhanced to detect anomalous protocol message patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-78, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in OS commands, and maps to ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for command and scripting interpreter. Organizations should also consider implementing principle of least privilege for mmm_agentd processes and regularly audit replication configurations to ensure that only necessary network access is granted to the replication management components.