CVE-2019-2998 in MySQL Server
Summary
by MITRE
Vulnerability in the MySQL Server product of Oracle MySQL (component: Server: Optimizer). Supported versions that are affected are 8.0.17 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 • 01/15/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2019-2998 resides within the MySQL Server optimizer component of Oracle MySQL, affecting versions 8.0.17 and earlier. This flaw represents a significant security concern as it operates within the core database engine's query optimization logic, which is fundamental to database operations. The vulnerability's classification as easily exploitable indicates that attackers with minimal technical barriers can leverage this weakness, particularly when they possess high-privileged network access to the target system. The attack vector through multiple protocols suggests that this vulnerability could be exploited across various network communication channels, making it particularly dangerous in diverse network environments where MySQL servers might be accessed through different connection methods.
The technical nature of this vulnerability lies within the server's optimizer module, which is responsible for determining the most efficient execution plan for database queries. When an attacker can manipulate specific query patterns or data structures that flow through this optimizer, they can trigger a condition that causes the MySQL server to enter a state of repeated crashes or complete system hangs. This behavior constitutes a denial of service condition that can effectively render the database service unavailable to legitimate users. The vulnerability's impact on availability is substantial, as reflected by the CVSS 3.0 base score of 4.9, with the availability impact rated as high. The CVSS vector indicates that the attack requires low complexity, high privilege, and no user interaction, suggesting that an attacker with sufficient access rights can cause persistent service disruption without requiring additional social engineering or complex exploitation techniques.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple service interruption, as database downtime can result in cascading failures throughout dependent applications and systems. Organizations relying on MySQL for critical business operations face significant risk when this vulnerability exists, particularly in environments where database availability is paramount for business continuity. The vulnerability's potential to cause complete server crashes means that even brief periods of disruption can result in substantial business impact, including lost transactions, data inconsistencies, and potential revenue loss. From an attacker perspective, this vulnerability represents a valuable tool for conducting persistent denial of service attacks against MySQL server infrastructure, as the effects are repeatable and can be maintained until the underlying system is patched or restarted.
Organizations should prioritize immediate patching of affected MySQL server installations to mitigate this vulnerability, as the risk of exploitation increases with the presence of unpatched systems in network environments. The recommended mitigation strategy involves upgrading to MySQL Server versions that contain the fix for this optimizer-related flaw, which typically involves applying the appropriate security patches released by Oracle. Additionally, network segmentation and access control measures can help limit the attack surface by restricting network access to MySQL servers, particularly for users who do not require high-privileged access. Monitoring for unusual query patterns or system behavior that might indicate exploitation attempts can also provide early detection capabilities. From a compliance perspective, this vulnerability aligns with various security standards including those outlined in the CWE catalog under weakness categories related to software fault patterns and system availability. The vulnerability's characteristics also map to ATT&CK techniques involving service stoppage and availability disruption, making it relevant for organizations implementing threat hunting and incident response procedures. Organizations should also consider implementing redundant database systems or high availability configurations to minimize the business impact should this vulnerability be exploited in their environment, as the complete denial of service condition can severely impact operational continuity and data availability for critical business functions.