CVE-2019-2789 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 8.0.16 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 update, insert or delete access to some of MySQL Server accessible data. CVSS 3.0 Base Score 2.7 (Integrity impacts). CVSS Vector: (CVSS:3.0/AV:N/AC:L/PR:H/UI:N/S:U/C:N/I:L/A:N).
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/06/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2019-2789 resides within Oracle MySQL Server's security privilege mechanisms, specifically affecting versions 8.0.16 and earlier. This issue manifests as a privilege escalation flaw that enables attackers with high privileges and network access through multiple protocols to compromise the MySQL server instance. The vulnerability's classification as easily exploitable indicates that the attack vector requires minimal technical sophistication, making it particularly dangerous in environments where privileged network access is possible. The affected component falls under the broader category of server security privileges, which directly impacts how the database system enforces access controls and authorization mechanisms.
The technical flaw stems from improper privilege validation within MySQL's server security framework, allowing authenticated users with elevated privileges to bypass intended access controls. This vulnerability specifically impacts the integrity of the database system by enabling unauthorized modification of data through update, insert, or delete operations on certain database objects. The CVSS score of 2.7 reflects the relatively low impact on confidentiality while demonstrating a moderate impact on integrity, indicating that attackers can modify data without necessarily reading it. The attack vector requires network access with high privileges, suggesting that the vulnerability may be exploited by insiders or attackers who have already established a foothold within the network environment. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-284, which addresses improper access control issues in software systems.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data modification, as it represents a significant security weakness that undermines the fundamental integrity protections of the MySQL database server. Successful exploitation can lead to data corruption, unauthorized data manipulation, and potential compromise of sensitive information stored within the database. Organizations using affected MySQL versions face the risk of unauthorized data changes that could go undetected for extended periods, potentially leading to compliance violations and reputational damage. The vulnerability's classification as a privilege escalation issue means that attackers who have already gained some level of access to the system can leverage this flaw to expand their capabilities within the database environment. This represents a particular concern for database administrators who must maintain strict access controls and audit trails to ensure data integrity.
Organizations should immediately implement mitigations including upgrading to MySQL Server version 8.0.17 or later, which contains the necessary patches to address this vulnerability. Network segmentation and access control measures should be reinforced to limit the attack surface and reduce the likelihood of unauthorized access to database systems. Regular security assessments and privilege reviews should be conducted to identify and remediate any unnecessary elevated privileges that could be exploited. The implementation of comprehensive monitoring solutions can help detect anomalous database activities that may indicate exploitation attempts. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing database activity monitoring tools that can track and alert on unauthorized data modification attempts, providing visibility into potential exploitation of this and similar vulnerabilities. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this type of vulnerability under privilege escalation techniques, emphasizing the need for layered security approaches that prevent attackers from leveraging initial access to gain broader system control.