CVE-2018-3075 in MySQL Server
Summary
by MITRE
Vulnerability in the MySQL Server component of Oracle MySQL (subcomponent: Server: Security: Privileges). Supported versions that are affected are 8.0.11 and prior. Easily exploitable vulnerability allows high privileged attacker with network access via multiple protocols to compromise MySQL Server. Successful attacks of this vulnerability can result in unauthorized ability to cause a hang or frequently repeatable crash (complete DOS) of MySQL Server. CVSS 3.0 Base Score 4.9 (Availability impacts). CVSS Vector: (CVSS:3.0/AV:N/AC:L/PR:H/UI:N/S:U/C:N/I:N/A:H).
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/17/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-3075 resides within Oracle MySQL Server's security privilege subsystem, specifically affecting versions 8.0.11 and earlier. This flaw represents a significant concern for database administrators and security professionals due to its potential to disrupt critical database operations. The vulnerability operates at a fundamental level within the server's privilege management system, creating a pathway for attackers to manipulate the server's operational state. The affected component falls under the broader category of server-side security mechanisms that control user access and privilege escalation capabilities within the MySQL ecosystem.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate privilege validation mechanisms within the MySQL server's authentication and authorization processes. Attackers with high-privileged network access can exploit this weakness to manipulate server behavior in ways that lead to denial of service conditions. The flaw specifically targets how the server handles certain privilege-related operations, allowing malicious actors to craft requests that trigger server instability. This vulnerability demonstrates a critical gap in the server's ability to properly validate and enforce access controls, particularly when dealing with elevated privilege operations that should normally be restricted to authorized administrative users.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple service disruption, as it can lead to complete server crashes that require manual intervention to restore normal operations. When successfully exploited, the vulnerability can cause the MySQL server to enter a state where it repeatedly crashes or becomes unresponsive, effectively rendering the database service unavailable to legitimate users and applications. This type of disruption can have cascading effects throughout enterprise systems that depend on MySQL for critical data operations, potentially leading to significant business interruption and data accessibility issues. The availability impact score of 4.9 reflects the severity of potential service disruption, as the complete denial of service condition can halt all database operations until manual recovery procedures are implemented.
From a cybersecurity perspective, this vulnerability aligns with CWE-284 (Improper Access Control) and represents a specific implementation weakness in privilege management systems. The attack vector requires network access with high privileges, suggesting that the vulnerability may be exploited through compromised administrative accounts or through network-based attacks that escalate to administrative levels. The CVSS vector analysis indicates that while the attack requires elevated privileges, the low complexity and network accessibility make it particularly dangerous in environments where administrative accounts may be compromised. Organizations should consider this vulnerability in the context of the MITRE ATT&CK framework, specifically under the privilege escalation and denial of service tactics where attackers leverage server-side weaknesses to disrupt service availability.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2018-3075 should prioritize immediate patching of affected MySQL Server installations to version 8.0.12 or later, which contains the necessary security fixes. Organizations should also implement network segmentation and access controls to limit administrative privileges and reduce the attack surface available to potential attackers. Monitoring for unusual server behavior and implementing intrusion detection systems can help identify exploitation attempts before they result in complete service disruption. Additionally, regular security audits of database access controls and privilege assignments should be conducted to ensure that administrative access is properly restricted and monitored, reducing the likelihood that an attacker can obtain the high privileges necessary to exploit this vulnerability.