CVE-2022-39408 in MySQL Server
Summary
by MITRE • 10/19/2022
Vulnerability in the MySQL Server product of Oracle MySQL (component: Server: Optimizer). Supported versions that are affected are 8.0.30 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 3.1 Base Score 6.5 (Availability impacts). CVSS Vector: (CVSS:3.1/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 • 07/01/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-39408 represents a significant availability risk within Oracle MySQL Server versions 8.0.30 and earlier, specifically within the Server: Optimizer component. This flaw manifests as a denial of service condition that can be triggered by low-privileged attackers with network access through multiple protocols, making it particularly concerning for production environments where database availability is critical. The vulnerability's classification as easily exploitable indicates that attackers require minimal privileges and sophisticated technical skills to leverage this weakness effectively.
The technical nature of this vulnerability resides in the MySQL Server's query optimizer module, which is responsible for determining the most efficient execution plan for database queries. When specific query patterns are processed through this optimizer, the flaw causes the server to enter a state where it either hangs indefinitely or crashes repeatedly, leading to complete service disruption. The root cause appears to be related to improper handling of certain optimization scenarios that result in infinite loops or memory exhaustion conditions within the optimizer's execution path. This type of vulnerability aligns with CWE-843, which describes the improper use of a resource in a manner that can lead to resource exhaustion or system instability.
From an operational perspective, the impact of CVE-2022-39408 extends beyond simple service interruption, as it can render critical database systems unavailable for extended periods. The CVSS 3.1 base score of 6.5 reflects the vulnerability's ability to cause complete denial of service with low attack complexity and minimal privileges required. Organizations running affected MySQL versions face potential business disruption, as database services may become unavailable during peak usage periods, potentially affecting multiple applications that depend on the database for their operations. The vulnerability's network accessibility means that attackers can exploit it remotely, increasing the attack surface and reducing the time required to execute successful attacks.
The exploitation of this vulnerability follows attack patterns consistent with the ATT&CK framework's privilege escalation and denial of service tactics. Attackers can leverage this weakness to systematically disrupt database operations without requiring administrative credentials, making it particularly dangerous in environments where database access controls may be insufficient. The complete DOS condition can be maintained for extended periods, potentially causing cascading failures throughout application systems that depend on the compromised database. Organizations should consider implementing network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure, while also monitoring for unusual query patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2022-39408 should prioritize immediate patching of affected MySQL Server installations to version 8.0.31 or later, which contains the necessary fixes for this optimizer flaw. Network-level protections including firewall rules and access control lists can help limit the exposure of affected systems to unauthorized network access. Additionally, implementing database monitoring solutions that can detect unusual query patterns or resource consumption spikes may help identify exploitation attempts before they cause complete service disruption. Regular vulnerability assessments and penetration testing should be conducted to identify other potential weaknesses in database infrastructure, while maintaining up-to-date security patches across all database components to prevent similar vulnerabilities from compromising system availability.