CVE-2020-14828 in MySQL Server
Summary
by MITRE • 10/21/2020
Vulnerability in the MySQL Server product of Oracle MySQL (component: Server: DML). Supported versions that are affected are 8.0.21 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 takeover of MySQL Server. CVSS 3.1 Base Score 7.2 (Confidentiality, Integrity and Availability impacts). CVSS Vector: (CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:H/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H).
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/24/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2020-14828 represents a critical security flaw within Oracle MySQL Server's DML (Data Manipulation Language) component affecting versions 8.0.21 and earlier. This vulnerability resides in the server's handling of specific data manipulation operations and demonstrates how seemingly routine database functions can become entry points for sophisticated attacks. The flaw operates at a fundamental level within the database engine's architecture, where improper validation or handling of certain DML operations creates exploitable conditions that can be leveraged by malicious actors.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and potential memory corruption issues within the MySQL Server's DML processing subsystem. Attackers with high privileged access and network connectivity can exploit this weakness through multiple protocols to execute malicious code or manipulate database operations. The vulnerability's classification as easily exploitable indicates that the attack vectors require minimal technical expertise or resources to successfully implement, making it particularly dangerous in production environments where database servers are often accessible over networks. This characteristic places the vulnerability squarely within the ATT&CK framework's privilege escalation and execution tactics, where adversaries can leverage existing access to gain further control over systems.
The operational impact of CVE-2020-14828 extends far beyond simple data compromise, as successful exploitation can lead to complete takeover of the MySQL Server instance. This level of compromise affects all three core security principles defined in the CVSS assessment: confidentiality, integrity, and availability. The high severity rating of 7.2 reflects the potential for attackers to gain complete control over database operations, potentially leading to unauthorized data access, modification of critical database contents, or complete service disruption. Organizations running affected MySQL versions face significant risk of data breaches, system compromise, and potential regulatory compliance violations that could result in substantial financial and reputational damage.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability must prioritize immediate patching of all affected MySQL Server instances to version 8.0.22 or later, which contains the necessary security fixes. Network segmentation and access controls should be implemented to limit exposure of database servers to only necessary network traffic, reducing the attack surface available to potential adversaries. Database administrators should also implement comprehensive monitoring solutions to detect anomalous DML operations that might indicate exploitation attempts, while maintaining regular security audits of database configurations and access controls. Organizations should consider implementing the principle of least privilege for database accounts and establish robust backup and recovery procedures to ensure business continuity in case of successful exploitation. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-119, which addresses improper restriction of operations within a limited scope, and represents a clear example of how database engine flaws can create pathways for complete system compromise.