CVE-2019-2632 in MySQL Server
Summary
by MITRE
Vulnerability in the MySQL Server component of Oracle MySQL (subcomponent: Server : Pluggable Auth). Supported versions that are affected are 5.7.25 and prior and 8.0.15 and prior. Easily exploitable vulnerability allows unauthenticated attacker with network access via multiple protocols to compromise MySQL Server. Successful attacks of this vulnerability can result in unauthorized access to critical data or complete access to all MySQL Server accessible data. CVSS 3.0 Base Score 7.5 (Confidentiality impacts). CVSS Vector: (CVSS:3.0/AV:N/AC:L/PR:N/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:N/A:N).
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/03/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2019-2632 resides within the MySQL Server component, specifically within the Pluggable Authentication subsystem that operates under Oracle MySQL version 5.7.25 and earlier, as well as version 8.0.15 and earlier. This flaw represents a significant security weakness that affects the authentication mechanisms of the database server, potentially allowing unauthorized access to sensitive data. The vulnerability manifests in the way MySQL handles authentication requests, creating a pathway for attackers to bypass normal authentication procedures without requiring valid credentials or prior authorization to the system.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from improper validation of authentication tokens and credentials within the pluggable authentication framework. Attackers can exploit this weakness by sending specially crafted authentication requests over multiple network protocols, including TCP/IP connections to the MySQL server. The vulnerability's ease of exploitation means that an attacker with network access to the MySQL server port can potentially compromise the entire database system without needing to authenticate with legitimate credentials. This represents a critical flaw in the authentication architecture where the system fails to properly validate the authenticity of incoming authentication requests.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple unauthorized access, as successful exploitation can lead to complete compromise of all data accessible through the MySQL server. Attackers can potentially access, modify, or exfiltrate critical database information including user credentials, personal data, financial records, and other sensitive business information. The confidentiality impact is rated as high (CVSS 3.0 Base Score 7.5) because the vulnerability allows attackers to gain access to data that should remain protected. The lack of authentication requirements and the potential for complete data access make this vulnerability particularly dangerous for organizations relying on MySQL for their database operations.
This vulnerability aligns with CWE-287 which addresses improper authentication issues, and maps to ATT&CK technique T1110.001 for credential access through brute force or exploit of vulnerabilities. Organizations should immediately implement mitigations including applying the latest security patches from Oracle, implementing network segmentation to restrict access to MySQL ports, and configuring firewall rules to limit access to trusted IP addresses only. Additionally, monitoring network traffic for unusual authentication patterns and implementing intrusion detection systems can help identify potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability underscores the critical importance of maintaining up-to-date database software and implementing proper network access controls to prevent unauthorized access to critical data systems.