CVE-2023-21917 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

This article provides detailed information about CVE-2023-21917, a vulnerability impacting Oracle's MySQL Server.

Understanding CVE-2023-21917

CVE-2023-21917 is a vulnerability in Oracle's MySQL Server that affects versions 8.0.30 and prior. It allows a high-privileged attacker with network access via multiple protocols to compromise MySQL Server, potentially leading to unauthorized actions causing server hang or frequent crashes.

What is CVE-2023-21917?

The vulnerability in the MySQL Server product of Oracle MySQL (component: Server: Optimizer) allows high-privileged attackers to compromise the server and potentially cause a denial of service (DOS) attack by crashing the server. The CVSS 3.1 Base Score for this vulnerability is 4.9, with availability being the impacted aspect.

The Impact of CVE-2023-21917

Successful exploitation of CVE-2023-21917 can result in a high-privileged attacker causing a complete denial of service (DOS) by crashing the MySQL Server. This unauthorized access could lead to serious disruptions in server functionality and availability.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-21917

The vulnerability is classified based on the CVSS 3.1 metrics with a Base Score of 4.9, indicating a medium severity impact.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allows attackers with high privileges and network access to compromise the MySQL Server, potentially leading to a complete denial of service by crashing the server.

Affected Systems and Versions

The vulnerability impacts Oracle's MySQL Server versions 8.0.30 and prior. Users operating these versions are at risk of exploitation by high-privileged attackers with network access.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability through multiple network protocols, enabling them to compromise the MySQL Server and cause disruptive crashes that result in a denial of service scenario.

Mitigation and Prevention

It is crucial for organizations using affected versions of Oracle's MySQL Server to take immediate steps to mitigate the risk posed by CVE-2023-21917.

Immediate Steps to Take

Monitor security advisories from Oracle for patches and updates related to this vulnerability.
Implement network security measures to restrict access to MySQL Server from untrusted sources.
Consider upgrading to a non-affected version of MySQL Server to mitigate the risk of exploitation.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update MySQL Server to the latest secure versions provided by Oracle.
Conduct routine security assessments and audits to identify and address potential vulnerabilities.
Train personnel on best practices for securing MySQL Server to prevent unauthorized access and exploitation.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security bulletins and patches released by Oracle to address CVE-2023-21917. Apply relevant patches promptly to secure the MySQL Server environment from potential attacks.