CVE-2018-3156 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A vulnerability in the InnoDB subcomponent of Oracle MySQL Server allows unauthorized disruption, potentially leading to a denial of service.

Understanding CVE-2018-3156

This CVE involves a vulnerability in the MySQL Server component of Oracle MySQL, affecting versions 5.6.41 and earlier, 5.7.23 and earlier, and 8.0.12 and earlier.

What is CVE-2018-3156?

The vulnerability in the InnoDB subcomponent of Oracle MySQL Server can be exploited by a low privileged attacker with network access through various protocols, compromising the server.

The Impact of CVE-2018-3156

Successful exploitation can lead to unauthorized disruption, causing server hangs or repeatable crashes, resulting in a complete denial of service.
The CVSS 3.0 Base Score for this vulnerability is 6.5, indicating its impact on availability.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-3156

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allows a low privileged attacker with network access to compromise the MySQL Server, potentially causing a denial of service.

Affected Systems and Versions

MySQL Server versions 5.6.41 and earlier
MySQL Server versions 5.7.23 and earlier
MySQL Server versions 8.0.12 and earlier

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by a low privileged attacker with network access through various protocols, ultimately compromising the MySQL Server.

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply vendor patches and updates promptly to mitigate the vulnerability.
Monitor network traffic for any suspicious activity that could indicate an exploit attempt.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch all software and systems to prevent known vulnerabilities.
Implement network segmentation and access controls to limit the impact of potential attacks.

Patching and Updates

Oracle, Red Hat, Debian, Ubuntu, and other vendors have released advisories and patches to address this vulnerability.