CVE-2020-7221 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

MariaDB 10.4.7 through 10.4.11 is vulnerable to privilege escalation through mysql_install_db, allowing unauthorized access to root.

Understanding CVE-2020-7221

This CVE highlights a security issue in MariaDB versions 10.4.7 through 10.4.11 that enables privilege escalation from the mysql user account to root due to unsafe chown and chmod operations.

What is CVE-2020-7221?

The vulnerability in mysql_install_db in MariaDB versions 10.4.7 through 10.4.11 permits unauthorized users to elevate their privileges from the mysql user account to root through a symlink attack on a specific chmod operation.

The Impact of CVE-2020-7221

This vulnerability allows attackers to gain root access on systems running the affected MariaDB versions, potentially leading to unauthorized control and manipulation of the system.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-7221

The technical aspects of this CVE provide insight into the vulnerability's description, affected systems, and the exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from unsafe chown and chmod operations in MariaDB's mysql_install_db, enabling unauthorized users to escalate their privileges to root through a symlink attack.

Affected Systems and Versions

MariaDB versions 10.4.7 through 10.4.11 are impacted by this vulnerability.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by performing a symlink attack on a specific chmod operation (04755) within MariaDB's auth_pam_tool_dir/auth_pam_tool.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2020-7221 involves immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Monitor for any unauthorized root access or suspicious activities on the system.
Consider restricting access to vulnerable components until a patch is applied.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update MariaDB to the latest secure versions.
Implement least privilege principles to restrict user permissions and access.

Patching and Updates

Apply the necessary patches provided by MariaDB to address this vulnerability and prevent privilege escalation.