CVE-2023-21946 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

This is a detailed analysis of CVE-2023-21946, a vulnerability found in Oracle's MySQL Server that can be exploited by a low-privileged attacker with network access to compromise the server. The 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) attack.

Understanding CVE-2023-21946

This section provides an in-depth look at the nature and impact of CVE-2023-21946.

What is CVE-2023-21946?

CVE-2023-21946 is a vulnerability identified in the MySQL Server product of Oracle MySQL, specifically in the Server Optimizer component. The affected versions include 8.0.32 and prior. The vulnerability allows a low-privileged attacker with network access via multiple protocols to compromise the MySQL Server.

The Impact of CVE-2023-21946

In the event of a successful attack leveraging CVE-2023-21946, the unauthorized attacker can potentially cause the MySQL Server to hang or experience repeatable crashes, resulting in a complete denial of service (DOS) situation. The vulnerability's CVSS 3.1 Base Score is 6.5, with a focus on Availability impacts.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-21946

Explore the technical aspects of CVE-2023-21946, including its description, affected systems, versions, and exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in MySQL Server allows a low-privileged attacker, with network access through multiple protocols, to compromise the server. Successful exploitation can lead to the server hanging or crashing, causing a denial of service condition.

Affected Systems and Versions

The vulnerability impacts Oracle Corporation's MySQL Server version 8.0.32 and earlier versions, making them susceptible to exploitation by attackers with the described access.

Exploitation Mechanism

Low-privileged attackers who have network access via various protocols can exploit this vulnerability to compromise MySQL Server, potentially causing it to hang or crash, leading to a complete denial of service (DoS) scenario.

Mitigation and Prevention

In this section, we will discuss the steps to mitigate and prevent the exploitation of CVE-2023-21946.

Immediate Steps to Take

Immediately apply security patches or updates provided by Oracle to address CVE-2023-21946. Furthermore, restrict network access to the MySQL server to only authorized personnel to minimize the risk of exploitation.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement stringent security measures such as regular security assessments, network monitoring, and access control mechanisms to enhance the overall security posture of your MySQL Server environment.

Patching and Updates

Regularly monitor Oracle's security advisories and apply patches or updates promptly to ensure that your MySQL Server remains protected against known vulnerabilities, including CVE-2023-21946.