CVE-2021-27928 is a high-severity vulnerability that allows remote code execution in MariaDB versions 10.2 before 10.2.37, 10.3 before 10.3.28, 10.4 before 10.4.18, and 10.5 before 10.5.9, as well as in Percona Server through 2021-03-03. An untrusted search path leads to eval injection, allowing a database SUPER user to execute operating system commands after modifying the wsrep_provider and wsrep_notify_cmd system variables. This vulnerability does not affect Oracle products.
The vulnerability has a CVSS score of 7.2, indicating a high level of severity. This score reflects the potential for significant impact to confidentiality, integrity, and availability. Attackers may leverage this vulnerability to execute arbitrary commands on affected systems, posing a serious risk to organizations utilizing these database systems.
Given the nature of this vulnerability, organizations should prioritize patching immediately. The affected versions of MariaDB and Percona Server have been identified, and patches are available to remediate this issue. Delaying updates could expose critical systems to exploitation.
Organizations must be vigilant and proactive in their security measures to mitigate the risk associated with this vulnerability. Implementing strict access controls and monitoring systems for unusual activity can help defend against potential exploits.
Vulnerability Details
CVE-2021-27928 is classified as a remote code execution vulnerability. The CVSS score of 7.2 indicates that it is high severity, primarily due to the potential for significant damage to affected systems. The vulnerability affects MariaDB versions 10.2 prior to 10.2.37, 10.3 prior to 10.3.28, 10.4 prior to 10.4.18, and 10.5 prior to 10.5.9. Percona Server is also affected through 2021-03-03, as well as the wsrep patch for MySQL. This vulnerability allows a database SUPER user to execute OS commands due to an untrusted search path leading to eval injection.
Technical Analysis
The root cause of this vulnerability lies in the improper handling of system variable modifications within the MariaDB database. Specifically, the wsrep_provider and wsrep_notify_cmd variables can be modified by a SUPER user, leading to the execution of arbitrary commands. The attack vector for this vulnerability is network-based, meaning it can be exploited remotely without any physical access to the target system.
The complexity of the attack is low, as it does not require advanced skills or techniques to exploit. The privileges required to exploit this vulnerability are high, meaning that only users with elevated permissions (such as a database SUPER user) can initiate the attack. No user interaction is required, making it easier for attackers to execute their payloads.
The impacts on confidentiality, integrity, and availability are significant. Successful exploitation could lead to unauthorized access to sensitive data, compromise of data integrity, and potential downtime of affected systems.
Risk & Impact Analysis
Organizations utilizing vulnerable versions of MariaDB and Percona Server face serious risks. The potential for remote code execution could allow attackers to gain complete control over affected systems, leading to data breaches and operational disruptions. The blast radius is significant, as this vulnerability affects multiple versions of widely used database technologies.
With a CVSS score of 7.2 and a high EPSS score indicating a 97.75th percentile risk, organizations must address this vulnerability in their patch management cycle. The urgency to remediate is high, and organizations should ensure that their database systems are updated to the latest secure versions to mitigate potential threats.
Exploitation Status
Signal | Status |
|---|---|
Known Exploit | Yes |
Public PoC | Yes |
Actively Exploited | No |
Ransomware Use | No |
Affected Versions
The versions affected by CVE-2021-27928 include:
MariaDB: 10.2 before 10.2.37, 10.3 before 10.3.28, 10.4 before 10.4.18, 10.5 before 10.5.9; Percona Server through 2021-03-03; and the wsrep patch through 2021-03-03 for MySQL.
Mitigation & Remediation
Organizations should immediately apply the latest patches provided by their database vendors. For MariaDB, upgrade to versions 10.2.37, 10.3.28, 10.4.18, or 10.5.9 as appropriate. For Percona Server, ensure it is updated to a version released after the specified date.
In cases where immediate patching is not feasible, organizations should implement network controls to limit access to database servers and monitor for unusual activity that may indicate exploitation attempts.
Additionally, organizations can benefit from engaging in penetration testing to identify vulnerabilities in their systems.
Detection Guidance
Monitoring logs for unauthorized changes to the wsrep_provider and wsrep_notify_cmd variables can help detect potential exploitation of this vulnerability. Look for unusual command executions and access patterns that could indicate an attacker is attempting to exploit the vulnerability.
AppSecure Threat Intelligence Insight
CVE-2021-27928 represents a critical issue within widely used database technologies, highlighting the need for robust security practices. The availability of public proof-of-concept exploits indicates that security teams must remain vigilant against potential exploitation.
Organizations should regularly review their security posture and consider implementing a comprehensive vulnerability management program to proactively identify and address potential vulnerabilities.
Furthermore, maintaining awareness of new vulnerabilities and trends in exploitation can inform security strategies. Engaging with external resources and threat intelligence platforms can enhance an organization's ability to respond effectively to emerging threats.
For additional insights into effective security practices, organizations can explore resources on API security testing and cloud penetration testing to enhance their security posture.
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
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