CVE-2025-21546 is a vulnerability found in the MySQL Server product of Oracle MySQL, specifically within the Server: Security: Privileges component. This vulnerability allows high privileged attackers with network access via multiple protocols to compromise the MySQL Server. The affected supported versions include 8.0.40 and prior, 8.4.3 and prior, and 9.1.0 and prior. The vulnerability is classified with a CVSS 3.1 Base Score of 3.8, indicating low severity and highlighting confidentiality and integrity impacts.
Successful exploitation of this vulnerability can lead to unauthorized update, insert, or delete access to MySQL Server data, as well as unauthorized read access to a subset of accessible data. Hence, risk to organizations includes potential data breaches and integrity violations.
Despite the low severity rating, organizations should still prioritize patching immediately to mitigate risks associated with unauthorized access. The urgency is underscored by the ease of exploitation due to the required privileges being high but the attack complexity being low.
Currently, there are no known public exploits for this vulnerability, but organizations should remain vigilant and ensure that systems are updated to the latest patched versions to maintain security.
Vulnerability Details
The official description of CVE-2025-21546 states that this vulnerability in Oracle MySQL Server could allow high privileged attackers with network access to compromise the server. It affects versions 8.0.40 and earlier, 8.4.3 and earlier, and 9.1.0 and earlier. The CVSS score of 3.8 indicates low severity, with confidentiality and integrity impacts. The associated CWE classification is CWE-863.
Technical Analysis
The root cause of this vulnerability lies in the management of security privileges within the MySQL Server component. The attack vector is network-based, requiring minimal complexity to exploit. Although high privileges are required for exploitation, user interaction is not necessary. The impacts on confidentiality and integrity are classified as low, while availability is unaffected.
Risk & Impact Analysis
Organizations should assess the risk associated with this vulnerability in the context of their specific deployment. While the CVSS score indicates low severity, the potential for unauthorized access and data manipulation remains a concern. The blast radius could affect sensitive information stored in MySQL databases, leading to data integrity issues and potential regulatory consequences.
Given the low EPSS score of 0.00094, the likelihood of exploitation appears minimal; however, organizations should not become complacent. The urgency for remediation is moderate, and organizations should schedule remediation accordingly.
Exploitation Status
Signal | Status |
|---|---|
Known Exploit | No |
Public PoC | No |
Actively Exploited | No |
Ransomware Use | No |
Affected Versions
The affected versions of MySQL Server include 8.0.40 and prior, 8.4.3 and prior, and 9.1.0 and prior. Organizations utilizing these versions should take immediate action to patch and secure their databases.
Mitigation & Remediation
To mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2025-21546, organizations should ensure they apply the latest patches provided by Oracle. Upgrading to versions 8.0.41, 8.4.4, or 9.1.1 is recommended. In the absence of an immediate patch, organizations may consider implementing network segmentation to limit access to the MySQL Server and enforce strict access controls.
Configuration hardening practices should also be reviewed, including limiting user privileges and ensuring that only necessary services are exposed to the network. Regular monitoring of database activities can help identify any anomalous behavior that could indicate exploitation attempts.
Organizations can validate remediation effectiveness through penetration testing to identify similar weaknesses.
Detection Guidance
Organizations should monitor logs for indicators of unauthorized access attempts, including failed login attempts and unusual query patterns. Behavioral anomalies, such as unexpected changes in data access patterns, should also be investigated. Network signatures indicating abnormal traffic to the MySQL server can serve as additional detection mechanisms.
AppSecure Threat Intelligence Insight
The long-term significance of CVE-2025-21546 lies in its illustration of how even low-severity vulnerabilities can pose risks to database integrity if left unaddressed. Organizations should adopt a proactive approach to vulnerability management, regularly reviewing and updating their security postures to adapt to emerging threats.
This vulnerability underscores the importance of continuous penetration testing and security assessments, allowing teams to uncover potential weaknesses before they can be exploited. By integrating security into the development lifecycle, organizations can mitigate risks effectively.
For further insights and best practices, organizations can refer to resources such as the penetration testing methodology and the importance of establishing a comprehensive vulnerability management program to enhance overall security resilience.
Security teams should also stay informed about trends in vulnerabilities, as highlighted in the 2025 vulnerability exposure severity trends report, which can guide defensive strategies.
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
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