CVE-2021-35646 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A vulnerability has been identified in the MySQL Server product of Oracle MySQL, specifically in the Server Optimizer component. This vulnerability, designated as CVE-2021-35646, affects versions 8.0.26 and earlier, allowing a highly privileged attacker with network access to compromise the MySQL Server. Successful exploitation of this vulnerability can lead to unauthorized actions that may cause the MySQL Server to hang or crash, resulting in a Denial of Service (DoS) condition with a CVSS 3.1 Base Score of 4.9 (high availability impact).

Understanding CVE-2021-35646

This section provides an overview of the nature and impact of the CVE-2021-35646 vulnerability.

What is CVE-2021-35646?

The vulnerability in the MySQL Server product of Oracle MySQL, specifically in the Server Optimizer component, allows high privileged attackers with network access to compromise the server. Successful exploitation could lead to a hang or crash of the MySQL Server.

The Impact of CVE-2021-35646

The impact of CVE-2021-35646 includes the unauthorized ability to cause a hang or frequently repeatable crash of the MySQL Server, leading to a complete Denial of Service (DoS) condition.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-35646

This section delves into the technical aspects of the CVE-2021-35646 vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability is easily exploitable, enabling high privileged attackers with network access to compromise the MySQL Server. Successful attacks could result in unauthorized actions that cause the server to hang or crash.

Affected Systems and Versions

The vulnerability affects versions of MySQL Server 8.0.26 and prior.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers with high privileges and network access can exploit the vulnerability via multiple protocols, compromising the MySQL Server.

Mitigation and Prevention

In this section, we explore the steps to mitigate and prevent exploitation of CVE-2021-35646.

Immediate Steps to Take

It is recommended to apply patches or updates provided by Oracle Corporation promptly to address this vulnerability. Additionally, network access to the MySQL Server should be restricted.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implementing strong access controls, network segmentation, and regular security updates can help enhance the overall security posture of the MySQL Server and mitigate similar vulnerabilities in the future.

Patching and Updates

Regularly checking for security advisories from Oracle Corporation and promptly applying patches or updates is crucial to safeguarding the MySQL Server.