CVE-2019-2805 in MySQL Server
Summary
by MITRE
Vulnerability in the MySQL Server component of Oracle MySQL (subcomponent: Server: Parser). Supported versions that are affected are 5.6.44 and prior, 5.7.26 and prior and 8.0.16 and prior. Easily exploitable vulnerability allows low 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 6.5 (Availability impacts). CVSS Vector: (CVSS:3.0/AV:N/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:U/C:N/I:N/A:H).
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/05/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2019-2805 resides within the MySQL Server component, specifically within the Server: Parser subcomponent of Oracle MySQL database systems. This flaw affects multiple version ranges including 5.6.44 and earlier, 5.7.26 and earlier, and 8.0.16 and earlier versions, making it a widespread issue across the MySQL ecosystem. The vulnerability's classification as easily exploitable indicates that attackers with minimal privileges and network access can leverage this weakness to compromise database servers. The attack vector requires only network connectivity through multiple protocols, eliminating the need for physical access or complex exploitation techniques that would typically be required for more sophisticated attacks.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from improper handling within the SQL parser component of MySQL Server, which processes incoming database queries and commands. When malformed or specially crafted input reaches the parser, it triggers an abnormal condition that leads to system instability. This parsing error results in the MySQL Server experiencing either a complete hang or repeated crashes that can occur frequently enough to render the database service completely unavailable. The vulnerability's impact on system availability is particularly severe because database servers form the foundation of numerous applications and services, making their uninterrupted operation critical for business continuity.
From an operational standpoint, the consequences of successful exploitation can be devastating for organizations relying on MySQL databases. The complete denial of service condition means that database applications will be unable to process queries, leading to cascading failures throughout dependent systems. This vulnerability affects organizations across various industries including finance, healthcare, e-commerce, and telecommunications where database availability is paramount. The CVSS 3.0 score of 6.5 reflects the moderate to high risk level, with the availability impact scoring highest at 8.0, indicating that the primary concern is service disruption rather than data compromise or privilege escalation.
Security professionals should consider this vulnerability in the context of the MITRE ATT&CK framework, particularly under the T1499 category of Network Denial of Service, which aligns with the availability impact described in the vulnerability. The CWE (Common Weakness Enumeration) classification for this type of issue would fall under CWE-121, which deals with Buffer Errors, or potentially CWE-129, which addresses Improper Validation of Array Index. Organizations should prioritize patch management and immediate deployment of Oracle's security patches for affected versions. Additionally, network segmentation and access controls should be implemented to limit exposure, while monitoring systems should be configured to detect unusual patterns of database connectivity issues that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of maintaining up-to-date database software and implementing robust security monitoring practices to prevent service disruption attacks that can have far-reaching business implications.