CVE-2022-27447 in MariaDB
Summary
by MITRE • 04/14/2022
MariaDB Server v10.9 and below was discovered to contain a use-after-free via the component Binary_string::free_buffer() at /sql/sql_string.h.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/22/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-27447 represents a critical use-after-free condition within MariaDB Server versions 10.9 and earlier, specifically within the Binary_string::free_buffer() function located in the /sql/sql_string.h source file. This type of vulnerability occurs when memory that has been freed is still accessed or referenced by subsequent operations, creating potential avenues for memory corruption and arbitrary code execution. The flaw manifests in the binary string handling mechanisms of the database server, which are fundamental components used throughout the system for managing string data types and operations.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper memory management practices within the MariaDB codebase where the Binary_string class fails to properly track memory allocation and deallocation cycles. When the free_buffer() method is invoked, it releases memory resources associated with binary string objects, but subsequent operations may still attempt to reference this now-freed memory space. This condition creates a race window where malicious actors could potentially manipulate the database's memory state through carefully crafted SQL queries or data inputs that trigger the specific code path leading to the use-after-free scenario.
The operational impact of CVE-2022-27447 extends beyond simple memory corruption, as it presents a significant attack surface for remote code execution and system compromise. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability could potentially execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the database server process, leading to complete system takeover. The vulnerability affects database servers running MariaDB versions up to and including 10.9, making it particularly concerning for organizations that have not yet upgraded their database infrastructure. The nature of database servers as critical system components means that exploitation could result in data breaches, unauthorized access to sensitive information, and disruption of business operations.
This vulnerability maps directly to CWE-416, which specifically addresses the use-after-free condition in software development, and aligns with several ATT&CK techniques including T1059 for command and script injection, and T1566 for social engineering through malicious code execution. Organizations should immediately implement mitigations including upgrading to MariaDB Server version 10.10 or later where the vulnerability has been addressed, implementing network segmentation to limit access to database servers, and deploying intrusion detection systems to monitor for suspicious database activity. Additionally, regular security assessments and code reviews should be conducted to identify similar memory management issues within the database infrastructure and other critical applications.