CVE-2021-35621 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A vulnerability has been identified in Oracle MySQL Cluster versions 7.4.33 and prior, 7.5.23 and prior, 7.6.19 and prior, and 8.0.26 and prior. This vulnerability can allow a high privileged attacker to compromise MySQL Cluster, potentially leading to a takeover. Here's what you need to know about CVE-2021-35621:

Understanding CVE-2021-35621

CVE-2021-35621 is a vulnerability in the MySQL Cluster product of Oracle MySQL, specifically affecting versions 7.4.33 and earlier, 7.5.23 and earlier, 7.6.19 and earlier, and 8.0.26 and earlier.

What is CVE-2021-35621?

The vulnerability in MySQL Cluster allows a high privileged attacker, with access to the hardware's physical communication segment, to compromise MySQL Cluster. Successful exploitation necessitates human interaction, separate from the attacker, and could lead to a complete takeover of MySQL Cluster. The CVSS 3.1 Base Score for this vulnerability is 6.3, impacting Confidentiality, Integrity, and Availability.

The Impact of CVE-2021-35621

The successful exploitation of CVE-2021-35621 could result in a complete takeover of MySQL Cluster. The vulnerability, although difficult to exploit, poses a significant risk to the security and integrity of the affected systems.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-35621

Here are some technical details regarding CVE-2021-35621:

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in MySQL Cluster arises from a flaw that allows high privileged attackers to compromise the system with access to the physical communication segment attached to the hardware.

Affected Systems and Versions

MySQL Cluster 7.4.33 and earlier
MySQL Cluster 7.5.23 and earlier
MySQL Cluster 7.6.19 and earlier
MySQL Cluster 8.0.26 and earlier

Exploitation Mechanism

Successful exploitation of this vulnerability requires a high privileged attacker to have access to the physical communication segment linked to the hardware where MySQL Cluster operates. It also demands human interaction from a separate individual other than the attacker.

Mitigation and Prevention

To mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2021-35621, consider the following:

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply security patches provided by Oracle Corporation for the affected versions of MySQL Cluster.
Restrict physical access to hardware where MySQL Cluster is deployed.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly monitor for security advisories and updates from Oracle Corporation.
Implement least privilege access controls to limit potential attackers.

Patching and Updates

Ensure timely installation of security patches and updates released by Oracle Corporation to address the vulnerabilities in MySQL Cluster.