CVE-2024-27766 in MariaDB
Summary
by MITRE • 10/18/2024
An issue in MYSQL MariaDB v.11.1 allows a remote attacker to execute arbitrary code via the lib_mysqludf_sys.so function.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/21/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-27766 represents a critical remote code execution flaw within MariaDB version 11.1 that stems from improper handling of the lib_mysqludf_sys.so plugin. This plugin exposes system-level functions through sql interface which can be exploited by remote attackers to gain unauthorized access to underlying operating system resources. The issue manifests when the plugin is loaded and configured with insufficient privilege controls, allowing malicious actors to leverage database user permissions to execute arbitrary system commands. The flaw exists in the privilege escalation mechanism within the plugin's implementation, creating a pathway for attackers to bypass normal database security boundaries and execute code directly on the host system.
This vulnerability operates at the intersection of database security and operating system privilege management, with the technical root cause lying in the improper validation of user inputs and insufficient access control enforcement within the lib_mysqludf_sys.so module. The flaw enables attackers to utilize functions such as sys_exec and sys_eval that provide direct access to shell commands, effectively transforming database access into system-level compromise. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-284 Access Control Issues, specifically related to insufficient privileges and improper access control mechanisms. Attackers can exploit this through crafted sql queries that invoke the vulnerable functions, potentially leading to complete system compromise when database users have sufficient permissions to load or execute the plugin.
The operational impact of CVE-2024-27766 extends beyond simple data theft to encompass full system compromise and potential lateral movement within network environments. Remote attackers can execute commands with the privileges of the database service account, which often runs with elevated permissions on the host system. This creates a significant risk for organizations where database servers are not properly isolated from other network components, as the vulnerability can be exploited without requiring local system access or additional authentication. The attack surface is particularly concerning in cloud environments where database instances may be exposed to public networks without proper firewall restrictions, and in scenarios where default configurations are retained without proper security hardening.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2024-27766 should prioritize immediate patching of affected MariaDB installations to version 11.1.2 or later where the vulnerability has been addressed. Organizations must implement strict access controls by disabling the lib_mysqludf_sys.so plugin through configuration changes or complete removal of the plugin files from database installations. Network segmentation and firewall rules should be enforced to limit access to database ports, ensuring that only trusted network segments can reach database services. Database administrators should review and restrict user permissions, particularly for accounts that can load or execute plugins, implementing principle of least privilege. Additionally, monitoring systems should be configured to detect unusual database activity patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts, including unexpected command execution or file access patterns. The mitigation approach aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059 Command and Scripting Interpreter, specifically targeting the execution of system commands through database interfaces, and reinforces defensive measures against lateral movement and privilege escalation attacks.