Re: Mysql 3.23.x/4.0.x Remote Root Exploit

[Melvyn Sopacua <msopacua () idg nl>]

At 15:16 14-9-2003, Jedi/Sector One wrote:

> On Sun, Sep 14, 2003 at 05:59:59AM -0700, Elv1S wrote:
> > http://www.k-otik.com/exploits/09.14.mysql.c.php
> > don't know if this vuln is patched ?
>
>   Yes, just upgrade MySQL to 4.0.15 or apply the small patch posted in the
> advisory.

Actually - there's a very simple work-around, based upon the age old "chicken
and egg principle":
In order to exploit this bug, you need to have ALTER privileges on the
mysql.user table.
Just grant that privilege only to a trusted *local* account (say 'root') and
you're home free. Make sure only trusted persons know that password and don't
store it anywhere digitally (remember to remove ~/.mysql_history after
changing the password).



Met vriendelijke groeten / With kind regards,

Webmaster IDG.nl
Melvyn Sopacua

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