CVE-2023-21871 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

This CVE-2023-21871 article provides insights into a vulnerability impacting Oracle's MySQL Server, specifically in the InnoDB component, with versions 8.0.31 and prior being affected. The vulnerability allows a high privileged attacker with network access via multiple protocols to compromise MySQL Server, potentially leading to a complete Denial of Service (DOS) attack.

Understanding CVE-2023-21871

In this section, we will delve deeper into the details of CVE-2023-21871 to understand its implications, impact, affected systems, and exploitation mechanisms.

What is CVE-2023-21871?

CVE-2023-21871 is an easily exploitable vulnerability in Oracle's MySQL Server, affecting versions 8.0.31 and earlier. It allows a high privileged attacker with network access through various protocols to compromise the MySQL Server. Successful exploitation of this vulnerability can result in unauthorized access to cause a hang or frequent crashes (complete DOS) of the MySQL Server.

The Impact of CVE-2023-21871

The impact of CVE-2023-21871 can be severe as it enables attackers to disrupt the availability of the MySQL Server by causing it to hang or crash, leading to potential denial of service situations. The CVSS 3.1 Base Score for this vulnerability is 4.9, with the availability impact rated as high.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-21871

This section will provide in-depth technical details regarding the vulnerability, affected systems, and how the exploitation can occur.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in the MySQL Server product of Oracle MySQL (component: InnoDB) allows a high privileged attacker with network access to compromise the server, resulting in potential unauthorized actions that can cause the server to hang or crash, ultimately leading to a denial of service (DOS) scenario.

Affected Systems and Versions

The vulnerability affects Oracle Corporation's MySQL Server with supported versions including 8.0.31 and prior, making these versions susceptible to exploitation by high privileged attackers with network access via multiple protocols.

Exploitation Mechanism

The exploitation of CVE-2023-21871 involves a high privileged attacker utilizing network access through various protocols to compromise the MySQL Server, leading to unauthorized actions that can disrupt the server's operation, causing hangs or frequent crashes (DOS).

Mitigation and Prevention

To protect systems and mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2023-21871, appropriate steps need to be taken promptly and in the long term to ensure the security of MySQL Server instances.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update: Apply security patches and updates released by Oracle to address the vulnerability in MySQL Server.
Network Segmentation: Implement network segmentation to limit the exposure of MySQL Server to potential attackers.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regular Security Audits: Conduct regular security audits and assessments of MySQL Server installations to identify and address vulnerabilities.
Security Training: Provide security awareness training to personnel responsible for managing and maintaining MySQL Server instances to enhance security posture.

Patching and Updates

Stay Informed: Stay updated with security advisories and patches released by Oracle for MySQL Server to promptly address any vulnerabilities and enhance system security.
Patch Management: Establish a patch management process to ensure timely application of security updates and patches to mitigate risks associated with known vulnerabilities.