CVE-2025-21566 is a vulnerability in the MySQL Server product of Oracle MySQL, specifically within the component known as Server: Optimizer. This vulnerability is classified with a CVSS score of 6.5, indicating a medium severity level. The issue is particularly significant as it allows low privileged attackers with network access via multiple protocols to compromise the MySQL Server. An attacker can exploit this vulnerability to cause a denial-of-service (DoS) condition, leading to frequent hangs or crashes of the MySQL Server. Given its impact on availability, organizations utilizing supported versions of MySQL, particularly versions 9.1.0 and prior, should take immediate actions to address this vulnerability.
Risk to organizations includes unauthorized access leading to service disruptions and potential data unavailability. With its easy exploitability, this vulnerability poses a real threat, especially to organizations relying on MySQL for critical operations. Organizations should prioritize patching immediately to prevent exploitation and maintain the integrity of their database services.
The vulnerability was published on January 21, 2025, and has since been modified. Its risk profile necessitates a thorough understanding of the potential attack vectors and the implications for enterprise environments. Organizations are encouraged to monitor for any related activities and ensure they are using the latest supported versions of MySQL.
Understanding the implications of CVE-2025-21566 is critical for database administrators and security teams. Addressing this vulnerability should be part of an organization's broader security strategy to safeguard against potential threats.
Vulnerability Details
The official description of this vulnerability indicates that it allows low privileged attackers with network access to MySQL Server to cause significant disruptions. The vulnerability type is classified under CWE-732, which refers to improper permission assignment. The CVSS score of 6.5 denotes a medium severity level, primarily due to its availability impact. The affected product is Oracle MySQL, specifically the MySQL Server component.
As of the publication date, the supported versions affected by this vulnerability are 9.1.0 and prior. Organizations running these versions should seek immediate remediation to prevent potential exploitation.
Technical Analysis
The root cause of CVE-2025-21566 stems from inadequate handling of certain operations within the MySQL Server's optimizer. Attackers can exploit this vulnerability through network access, which is characterized by low attack complexity and the need for minimal privileges. Importantly, this vulnerability does not require user interaction, making it more dangerous for organizations.
The impact of successful exploitation includes significant availability issues, leading to potential downtime of the MySQL Server. This can have cascading effects on any applications or services relying on the database. The vulnerability is classified with a CVSS vector that reflects its network attack vector, low complexity, and high availability impact.
Risk & Impact Analysis
Organizations using MySQL Server are at risk of denial-of-service conditions due to CVE-2025-21566. The availability impact of this vulnerability is categorized as high, meaning that successful exploitation can lead to prolonged outages, affecting business operations and user access to critical data. Additionally, the likelihood of exploitation is heightened due to the low privileges required, making it essential for organizations to assess their exposure.
With the CVSS score of 6.5, CVE-2025-21566 falls into the medium severity category, indicating that while it is not the highest priority, it should be addressed in a timely manner to mitigate potential risks. Organizations should integrate this vulnerability into their risk management processes and prioritize patching it in their next update cycle.
Signal | Status |
|---|---|
Known Exploit | No |
Public PoC | No |
Actively Exploited | No |
Ransomware Use | No |
Affected Versions
The affected versions of MySQL Server include all versions prior to 9.1.0. Organizations should ensure that they update to the latest version available to mitigate the risks associated with this vulnerability.
Mitigation & Remediation
To mitigate the risks posed by CVE-2025-21566, organizations should apply the latest patches provided by Oracle. It is crucial to monitor for updates and apply them promptly. If immediate patching is not possible, organizations can implement network controls to limit access to the MySQL Server, ensuring that only trusted sources can connect. Additionally, configuration hardening practices should be employed to minimize potential attack vectors.
For comprehensive security, organizations are encouraged to engage in penetration testing to validate their security posture against similar vulnerabilities.
Detection Guidance
Organizations should monitor their MySQL Server logs for unusual patterns that could indicate attempts to exploit this vulnerability. Key indicators include repeated failed connection attempts and unusual query patterns that may suggest an attacker is attempting to trigger a denial-of-service condition.
Additionally, implementing network signatures to detect abnormal traffic patterns associated with potential exploitation attempts will enhance detection capabilities.
AppSecure Threat Intelligence Insight
CVE-2025-21566 represents a pattern of vulnerabilities that can lead to significant availability concerns within database systems. Security teams should take this opportunity to review their overall security strategies and implement more robust defenses against potential DoS attacks. The low complexity and low privilege requirements for exploitation make this an attractive target for attackers.
For organizations looking to strengthen their defenses, resources such as the penetration testing methodology guide and the vulnerability management program design can provide valuable insights. Additionally, adopting a proactive approach towards API security testing will further enhance the organization’s overall 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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