SELECT LOAD_FILE('/etc/passwd');
root:root , root:password , root:toor , admin: , mysql:mysql .
Many WAFs block information_schema but forget to block mysql.innodb_table_stats , which can be used to extract table names and schema information in modern MySQL versions.
All the attacker techniques discussed can be prevented or severely mitigated by implementing a robust, defense-in-depth security posture. mysql hacktricks verified
SELECT user, authentication_string FROM mysql.user;
, you can:
HackTricks provides a checklist of verified commands and tools for MySQL (Port 3306): External Enumeration : Verified scripts like mysql-audit mysql-databases mysql-dump-hashes are used to extract information without full system access. Local/Remote Connection : Direct connection methods using mysql -u root (with or without passwords) to verify credential security. Privilege Escalation SELECT user, authentication_string FROM mysql
Once access is verified, the following high-impact techniques are documented for data exfiltration and privilege escalation: Arbitrary File Read (LOCAL INFILE): allowLoadLocalInfile=true
For more complex scenarios, the HackTricks arsenal includes:
Professional training platforms such as TCM Security for learning how these MySQL vulnerabilities fit into broader network penetration tests. Using responder or custom proxy to capture credentials:
Using responder or custom proxy to capture credentials:
-- Check for high‑impact privileges SELECT * FROM information_schema.user_privileges;
SELECT User, authentication_string FROM mysql.user;
The vulnerability arises from a memcmp() comparison issue—by repeatedly trying to log in with the correct username and any password, an attacker will eventually succeed. Metasploit modules exist to automate the process.
Older or misconfigured MySQL deployments suffer from known logical flaws that grant unauthorized access. The MySQL Authentication Bypass (CVE-2012-2122)