CVE-2023-22046 in MySQL Server
Summary
by MITRE • 07/19/2023
Vulnerability in the MySQL Server product of Oracle MySQL (component: Server: Optimizer). Supported versions that are affected are 8.0.33 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 3.1 Base Score 4.9 (Availability impacts). CVSS Vector: (CVSS:3.1/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 • 05/08/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-22046 resides within the MySQL Server optimizer component of Oracle MySQL, affecting versions 8.0.33 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 specifically targets the server's ability to process complex SQL queries and optimize execution plans, creating a pathway for malicious actors to disrupt normal database operations through carefully crafted inputs.
The technical nature of this vulnerability manifests as a flaw in how MySQL handles certain optimizer operations, particularly when processing specific query patterns that trigger memory management issues within the server's execution engine. The vulnerability operates at a low level within the database server's architecture, where the optimizer component manages query execution plans and resource allocation. When exploited, the flaw causes the MySQL server to enter a state where it becomes unresponsive or crashes repeatedly, leading to complete denial of service conditions. This behavior is characteristic of a resource exhaustion or memory corruption vulnerability that affects the server's stability and availability.
The operational impact of CVE-2023-22046 is severe given its CVSS base score of 4.9, which indicates a moderate to high severity threat to system availability. The vulnerability requires an attacker with high privileges and network access to exploit, but this access level is typically achievable in environments where database administrators have already gained significant control. The successful exploitation results in a complete denial of service condition that can render the database server completely inaccessible to legitimate users and applications. This type of vulnerability directly violates the availability principle of the CIA triad and can have cascading effects throughout applications that depend on database connectivity.
From a threat modeling perspective, this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1499.004 which covers "Endpoint Denial of Service" and CWE-476 which addresses "NULL Pointer Dereference" in certain scenarios. The vulnerability's classification as easily exploitable means that sophisticated attackers can leverage it without requiring extensive technical knowledge or specialized tools. The fact that it affects multiple protocols suggests the flaw exists in the server's core network handling mechanisms, making it particularly dangerous as it can be triggered through various connection methods including TCP/IP and Unix domain sockets. Organizations with MySQL installations running affected versions face significant risk of service disruption and potential business impact.
The recommended mitigation strategies include immediate patching of MySQL Server installations to versions beyond 8.0.33 where this vulnerability has been addressed. System administrators should also implement network segmentation and access controls to limit the attack surface, particularly restricting network access to database servers. Monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual patterns of database server crashes or unresponsiveness that might indicate exploitation attempts. Additionally, implementing database firewalls and query monitoring systems can help identify and block malicious query patterns before they can trigger the vulnerability. Regular vulnerability assessments and penetration testing should be conducted to ensure that similar flaws are not present in other components of the database infrastructure. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of keeping database server software up to date and maintaining robust security monitoring practices.