CVE-2021-27928 : Security Advisory and Response

A remote code execution vulnerability, CVE-2021-27928, was identified in various versions of MariaDB, Percona Server, and MySQL. This vulnerability could allow a malicious SUPER user to execute arbitrary OS commands by exploiting an untrusted search path vulnerability.

Understanding CVE-2021-27928

This section will cover the details of the CVE-2021-27928 vulnerability.

What is CVE-2021-27928?

The CVE-2021-27928 vulnerability is a remote code execution issue present in MariaDB versions prior to 10.2.37, 10.3.28, 10.4.18, and 10.5.9. It also affects Percona Server and the wsrep patch for MySQL. The vulnerability could be exploited by a SUPER user to execute OS commands by manipulating certain parameters.

The Impact of CVE-2021-27928

The impact of this vulnerability is critical as it allows an attacker with certain privileges to execute arbitrary OS commands, potentially leading to complete compromise of the affected system or unauthorized data access.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-27928

In this section, we will delve into the technical aspects of CVE-2021-27928.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises due to an untrusted search path vulnerability that enables a database SUPER user to inject and execute OS commands by altering specific configuration parameters like wsrep_provider and wsrep_notify_cmd.

Affected Systems and Versions

MariaDB versions before 10.2.37, 10.3.28, 10.4.18, and 10.5.9, along with Percona Server through 2021-03-03, and the wsrep patch through 2021-03-03 for MySQL are affected by this vulnerability.

Exploitation Mechanism

By exploiting the untrusted search path, a database SUPER user can manipulate the wsrep_provider and wsrep_notify_cmd settings to execute arbitrary OS commands, thereby gaining unauthorized access to the system.

Mitigation and Prevention

This section will provide insights into mitigating and preventing the CVE-2021-27928 vulnerability.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users are advised to update their MariaDB, Percona Server, and MySQL installations to the latest patched versions to mitigate the risk of exploitation. Additionally, restricting SUPER user privileges can help minimize the impact of the vulnerability.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implementing the principle of least privilege, conducting regular security audits, and monitoring for unusual activities can enhance the long-term security of the database systems.

Patching and Updates

Stay up to date with security advisories from the respective vendors and promptly apply patches to address known vulnerabilities and enhance the overall security posture of the database systems.