CVE-2012-2122 Scanner

The MySQL software, developed by Oracle, is widely used by organizations around the globe as a robust database management system. It serves a key role in managing data for large-scale applications, primarily for websites and enterprise applications. MySQL is often deployed in environments requiring high availability and scalability, supporting various back-end data storage purposes in conjunction with web applications. The software's flexible, open-source nature makes it popular among developers and businesses needing customizable database solutions. MySQL's integration capabilities with other software, including web servers and programming languages, amplify its demand in development environments.

This scanner detects an Authentication Bypass vulnerability in MySQL products, identified as CVE-2012-2122. This flaw allows remote users to bypass authentication protocols set on certain versions of MySQL and MariaDB. The vulnerability is particularly due to a flaw in the way the memcmp function processes comparisons. As a result, attackers could repeatedly attempt authentication with an incorrect password until a token comparison error allows them unauthorized access. Addressing this vulnerability is crucial to maintaining the security of database information and preventing unauthorized data access.

Technically, the vulnerability arises due to an improper check on the return value of the memcmp function within sql/password.c. An erroneous comparison process enables the acceptance of an incorrect authentication token after numerous attempts, essentially bypassing established security protocols. The template for analyzing this vulnerability includes specialized scripts simulating interaction with the MySQL server to identify if an unauthorized access attempt penetrates the system. Such details ensure that the vulnerability's presence and extent are accurately assessed.

Exploiting this vulnerability can lead to unauthorized access to sensitive data stored in affected database systems. Attackers gaining access could potentially manipulate or extract sensitive data, leading to data breaches and subsequent privacy violations. It empowers threat actors to compromise the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of database-stored information. Robust mitigation strategies and timely patching are essential to protect systems and minimize the potential impact of such vulnerabilities.

REFERENCES

• https://github.com/vulhub/vulhub/tree/master/mysql/CVE-2012-2122
• http://kb.askmonty.org/en/mariadb-5162-release-notes/
• http://lists.opensuse.org/opensuse-security-announce/2012-08/msg00007.html
• http://security.gentoo.org/glsa/glsa-201308-06.xml
• http://securitytracker.com/id?1027143