CVE-2021-2164 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

A vulnerability has been discovered in the MySQL Server product of Oracle MySQL, specifically in the Server: Optimizer component. This vulnerability affects versions 8.0.23 and prior, allowing a high privileged attacker with network access to compromise the MySQL Server. It can lead to a denial-of-service (DOS) attack by causing the server to hang or crash repeatedly.

Understanding CVE-2021-2164

This section will delve into what CVE-2021-2164 entails and its potential impact.

What is CVE-2021-2164?

The vulnerability in the MySQL Server product of Oracle MySQL allows a high privileged attacker with network access to compromise the server, leading to DOS. Supported versions impacted are 8.0.23 and earlier.

The Impact of CVE-2021-2164

Successful exploitation of this vulnerability can enable unauthorized individuals to disrupt the MySQL Server by causing it to hang or crash persistently, resulting in availability impacts with a CVSS Base Score of 4.9.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-2164

In this section, we will explore the technical aspects of CVE-2021-2164, including the vulnerability description, affected systems and versions, and the exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allows a high privileged attacker with network access to compromise the MySQL Server, potentially resulting in a DOS attack.

Affected Systems and Versions

Oracle MySQL Server versions 8.0.23 and prior are affected by this vulnerability.

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by a high privileged attacker with network access through multiple protocols to compromise the MySQL Server, leading to a DOS condition.

Mitigation and Prevention

In this section, we will discuss the steps you can take to mitigate and prevent the exploitation of CVE-2021-2164.

Immediate Steps to Take

It is recommended to apply patches provided by Oracle to address this vulnerability. Additionally, restrict network access to the MySQL Server to trusted entities only.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement network segmentation, regularly update and patch the MySQL Server, and monitor for any unauthorized access or unusual server behavior.

Patching and Updates

Regularly check for security updates from Oracle and apply them promptly to ensure that the MySQL Server is protected against known vulnerabilities.