CVE-2021-2478 : Security Advisory and Response

This article provides an overview of CVE-2021-2478, a vulnerability in the MySQL Server product of Oracle MySQL that allows a high privileged attacker to compromise the server.

Understanding CVE-2021-2478

CVE-2021-2478 is a vulnerability in Oracle MySQL Server that affects versions 8.0.26 and prior. The vulnerability can be exploited by an attacker with network access to compromise the server.

What is CVE-2021-2478?

The vulnerability in MySQL Server allows a high privileged attacker to compromise the server. Successful exploitation can lead to unauthorized actions causing a complete denial of service (DOS) of MySQL Server.

The Impact of CVE-2021-2478

The impact of CVE-2021-2478 is significant, with attackers potentially able to cause a hang or crash of the MySQL Server, leading to availability impacts. The CVSS 3.1 Base Score is 4.9, indicating a medium severity vulnerability.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-2478

CVE-2021-2478 has a base score of 4.9 in the CVSS 3.1 scoring system. It has a low attack complexity and high privilege requirements, with a vector string indicating network-based attack and high availability impact.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in MySQL Server allows an attacker with network access to compromise the server, potentially leading to a complete denial of service.

Affected Systems and Versions

The affected versions include MySQL Server 8.0.26 and prior. Users of these versions are at risk of exploitation by high privileged attackers.

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability is easily exploitable via network access. Attackers can use multiple protocols to compromise the MySQL Server, causing a hang or crash.

Mitigation and Prevention

To mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2021-2478, users should take immediate steps to secure their MySQL Server and implement long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users are advised to apply patches and updates provided by Oracle to address the vulnerability in MySQL Server. Additionally, network security measures should be enhanced to prevent unauthorized access.

Long-Term Security Practices

In the long term, users should follow best security practices, conduct regular security assessments, and stay informed about security updates from Oracle and other relevant sources.

Patching and Updates

Regularly check for patches and updates released by Oracle for MySQL Server to ensure that known vulnerabilities are addressed promptly.