CVE-2019-2503 : Security Advisory and Response

Oracle MySQL Server component, specifically the Connection Handling feature, has a vulnerability affecting versions 5.6.42 and earlier, 5.7.24 and earlier, and 8.0.13 and earlier. This vulnerability can be exploited by a low privileged attacker with access to the physical communication segment connected to the hardware where MySQL Server is running, potentially leading to unauthorized data access or denial of service.

Understanding CVE-2019-2503

This CVE involves a vulnerability in the Oracle MySQL Server component, impacting various versions and potentially allowing unauthorized access and denial of service attacks.

What is CVE-2019-2503?

The vulnerability in the MySQL Server component of Oracle MySQL, particularly in Connection Handling, allows a low privileged attacker to compromise the server by exploiting the physical communication segment. The affected versions include 5.6.42 and earlier, 5.7.24 and earlier, and 8.0.13 and earlier.

The Impact of CVE-2019-2503

Successful exploitation can lead to unauthorized access to critical data or complete access to all MySQL Server data accessible by the attacker.
The attacker may also cause a hang or repeatedly crash the MySQL Server, resulting in a denial of service.
The CVSS 3.0 Base Score for this vulnerability is 6.4, with impacts on confidentiality and availability.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-2503

The technical aspects of the vulnerability in Oracle MySQL Server.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allows a low privileged attacker to compromise the MySQL Server through the physical communication segment.
Successful attacks can result in unauthorized data access and denial of service.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected versions include MySQL Server 5.6.42 and earlier, 5.7.24 and earlier, and 8.0.13 and earlier.

Exploitation Mechanism

Exploitation requires access to the physical communication segment connected to the hardware where MySQL Server is running.

Mitigation and Prevention

Steps to mitigate and prevent the exploitation of CVE-2019-2503.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply patches provided by Oracle to address the vulnerability.
Restrict network access to MySQL Server to trusted entities only.
Monitor for any unauthorized access or unusual server behavior.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update MySQL Server to the latest secure versions.
Implement network segmentation to limit access to critical server components.
Conduct security training for staff to recognize and respond to potential threats.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security advisories from Oracle and apply patches promptly to secure the MySQL Server.