CVE-2020-2896 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A vulnerability in Oracle MySQL Server allows a high privileged attacker to compromise the server, potentially leading to a denial of service (DOS) attack.

Understanding CVE-2020-2896

This CVE involves a vulnerability in the MySQL Server product of Oracle MySQL, specifically in the Server Information Schema component.

What is CVE-2020-2896?

The vulnerability affects Oracle MySQL Server versions 8.0.19 and prior, enabling a high privileged attacker with network access to compromise the server. Successful exploitation can result in a DOS attack by causing the server to hang or crash.

The Impact of CVE-2020-2896

The vulnerability has a CVSS 3.0 Base Score of 4.9, with a focus on availability impacts. It poses a medium severity risk due to its potential to allow unauthorized actions on the MySQL Server.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-2896

This section delves into the technical aspects of the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allows attackers with high privileges and network access to compromise the MySQL Server, leading to potential DOS attacks.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: MySQL Server
Vendor: Oracle Corporation
Affected Versions: 8.0.19 and prior

Exploitation Mechanism

Attack Complexity: Low
Attack Vector: Network
Privileges Required: High
User Interaction: None
Scope: Unchanged
Confidentiality Impact: None
Integrity Impact: None
Availability Impact: High

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2020-2896, follow these mitigation strategies:

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply vendor patches promptly
Monitor network traffic for signs of exploitation
Restrict network access to vulnerable systems

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch software
Implement network segmentation to limit the attack surface
Conduct regular security assessments and audits

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security updates from Oracle
Apply patches as soon as they are released to mitigate the vulnerability