CVE-2018-3082 in MySQL Server
Summary
by MITRE
Vulnerability in the MySQL Server component of Oracle MySQL (subcomponent: Server: DDL). 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 read access to a subset of MySQL Server accessible data. CVSS 3.0 Base Score 2.7 (Confidentiality impacts). CVSS Vector: (CVSS:3.0/AV:N/AC:L/PR:H/UI:N/S:U/C:L/I:N/A:N).
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/17/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-3082 resides within Oracle MySQL Server's Data Definition Language (DDL) subsystem, specifically affecting versions 8.0.11 and earlier. This flaw represents a significant security concern for database environments that rely on MySQL's enterprise features. The vulnerability operates at the server level where DDL operations are processed, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited during routine database administration tasks or through legitimate database connections. The affected component's designation as Server: DDL indicates that the issue manifests when executing data definition commands such as create, alter, or drop operations within the database system. The vulnerability's classification as easily exploitable suggests that attackers with minimal technical sophistication can leverage this weakness, particularly when they possess elevated privileges within the network environment.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from insufficient access controls and validation mechanisms within the MySQL Server's DDL processing framework. Attackers with high privileged network access can exploit this flaw to perform unauthorized read operations against specific subsets of database data. The CVSS score of 2.7 reflects the relatively limited impact compared to other vulnerabilities, as it only affects confidentiality rather than integrity or availability. However, the severity lies in the fact that this vulnerability can be triggered through multiple network protocols, increasing the attack surface and exploitation vectors. The attack vector AV:N indicates network-based exploitation, while AC:L suggests low complexity for successful execution, making this vulnerability particularly concerning for environments with exposed database servers. The PR:H designation confirms that the attack requires high privileges, but this is often achievable in compromised environments where attackers have already gained elevated access.
The operational impact of CVE-2018-3082 extends beyond simple data theft, as it can enable attackers to gather sensitive information that may lead to further exploitation attempts. When attackers can read subsets of database data, they can potentially identify system weaknesses, user credentials, or business-critical information that can be used for lateral movement within the network. This vulnerability particularly affects organizations that maintain MySQL databases in production environments where database administrators have network access and where privilege escalation might have occurred. The limited scope of data access means that while the immediate impact may appear modest, attackers can use this information to plan more sophisticated attacks against other system components. The vulnerability's presence in MySQL 8.0.11 and prior versions indicates that organizations running these database versions are at risk, regardless of their security posture or network segmentation practices.
Organizations should prioritize patching their MySQL installations to address this vulnerability, particularly those running affected versions. The recommended mitigation strategy involves upgrading to MySQL 8.0.12 or later versions where the vulnerability has been resolved. Network segmentation and access control measures should be implemented to limit network access to database servers, reducing the attack surface for this and similar vulnerabilities. Monitoring for unusual database access patterns and implementing database activity monitoring solutions can help detect exploitation attempts. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-284 which addresses improper access control in software systems, and its exploitation patterns correspond to techniques described in the ATT&CK framework under database access and data extraction tactics. Organizations should also consider implementing principle of least privilege practices for database accounts and regularly auditing database access permissions to minimize the risk of privilege-based exploitation. Regular vulnerability assessments and penetration testing should include evaluation of database server configurations to identify and remediate similar access control weaknesses.