CVE-2023-21929 in MySQL Server
Summary
by MITRE • 04/18/2023
Vulnerability in the MySQL Server product of Oracle MySQL (component: Server: DDL). Supported versions that are affected are 8.0.32 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 as well as unauthorized update, insert or delete access to some of MySQL Server accessible data. CVSS 3.1 Base Score 5.5 (Integrity and Availability impacts). CVSS Vector: (CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:H/UI:N/S:U/C:N/I:L/A:H).
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/08/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-21929 represents a critical security flaw within Oracle MySQL Server's Data Definition Language (DDL) component, specifically affecting versions 8.0.32 and earlier. This vulnerability operates as a server-side issue that fundamentally compromises the integrity and availability of database systems. The flaw exists within the core database engine's handling of certain DDL operations, creating a pathway for malicious actors to exploit system resources and manipulate database contents. 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 MySQL server environment.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and resource management within the MySQL Server's DDL processing mechanisms. When specific database definition commands are executed, the server fails to properly handle certain parameters or conditions, leading to unpredictable behavior that can manifest as complete denial of service conditions. The flaw allows attackers to trigger system hangs or repeated crashes that effectively render the database server unavailable to legitimate users and applications. Additionally, the vulnerability creates opportunities for unauthorized modification of database contents through update, insert, or delete operations on specific data sets that the attacker has access to within the system's security boundaries. This dual impact on both availability and integrity makes the vulnerability particularly dangerous in production environments where database reliability and data consistency are paramount.
The operational impact of CVE-2023-21929 extends beyond simple service disruption to encompass significant data integrity risks that can compromise organizational security posture. When exploited, this vulnerability can cause complete system outages that affect business operations, application availability, and user access to critical data resources. The ability to perform unauthorized data modifications creates opportunities for data corruption, information leakage, or malicious manipulation of database contents that could have cascading effects throughout enterprise systems. Organizations relying on MySQL Server for mission-critical applications face substantial risk of operational disruption and potential compliance violations when this vulnerability remains unaddressed. The CVSS 3.1 score of 5.5 reflects the moderate severity of impact, but the combination of high privilege requirements with network access makes exploitation relatively straightforward for determined attackers.
Security practitioners should prioritize immediate remediation of this vulnerability through official Oracle patches and updates. The recommended mitigation strategy involves upgrading to MySQL Server versions that have been patched to address the DDL processing flaws. Organizations should also implement network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure of MySQL servers to untrusted networks. Monitoring for suspicious database activity and implementing intrusion detection systems can help identify potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-119 which describes weaknesses in memory management and buffer handling, while its exploitation patterns correspond to ATT&CK techniques involving privilege escalation and denial of service operations. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to ensure comprehensive protection against similar threats in database environments. Organizations should also review their database access controls and implement principle of least privilege to minimize potential damage from any successful exploitation attempts.