CVE-2016-2041: phpMyAdmin Unsafe comparison of XSRF/CSRF token
Summary
CVE-2016-2041: phpMyAdmin Unsafe comparison of XSRF/CSRF token. Affects phpmyadmin/phpmyadmin across 3 version ranges.
>= 4.0, < 4.0.10.13
>= 4.4, < 4.4.15.3
>= 4.5, < 4.5.4
Fixed in 4.0.10.13, 4.4.15.3 or 4.5.4, depending on the release line you run. How to fix ↓
Also tracked for
- phpmyadmin · Debian:11
The same CVE-2016-2041 is tracked separately for each ecosystem and vendor. Its fix information is the same; the package and affected versions differ.
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Background
phpMyAdmin is a popular open-source tool for managing MySQL databases. It provides a web-based interface that allows users to perform various database management tasks, such as creating tables, executing queries, and managing user permissions. The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-2041 affects phpMyAdmin versions 4.0.x, 4.4.x, and 4.5.x. This vulnerability arises from the improper implementation of the comparison algorithm for Cross-Site Request Forgery (CSRF) tokens. CSRF tokens are used to prevent unauthorized actions by verifying the authenticity of requests. However, the vulnerable versions of phpMyAdmin use a non-constant-time algorithm for comparing these tokens, making it easier for attackers to bypass access restrictions by measuring time differences.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability in phpMyAdmin allows remote attackers to bypass intended access restrictions by exploiting the insecure comparison of CSRF tokens. By measuring the time differences in token comparison, an attacker can determine the correct token value and perform unauthorized actions on the affected phpMyAdmin instance. This vulnerability poses a significant risk as it can lead to unauthorized data modification, deletion, or disclosure, depending on the privileges of the targeted user. The vulnerability has a CVSS score of 7.5, indicating a high severity level.
How To Fix
Fixed versions by release line
The minimum fixed version depends on the release line you run.
-
>= 4.0, < 4.0.10.134.0.10.13composer require phpmyadmin/phpmyadmin:4.0.10.13 -
>= 4.4, < 4.4.15.34.4.15.3composer require phpmyadmin/phpmyadmin:4.4.15.3 -
>= 4.5, < 4.5.44.5.4composer require phpmyadmin/phpmyadmin:4.5.4
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Workaround
If immediate updating is not possible, a temporary workaround can be implemented by modifying the affected phpMyAdmin code. The vulnerable code can be found in the 'libraries/common.inc.php' file. The comparison algorithm for CSRF tokens should be replaced with a constant-time algorithm, such as the 'hash_equals' function in PHP. Here is an example of the modified code:
// Replace the vulnerable token comparison code
if (hash_equals($token, $userToken)) {
// Token comparison is secure
// Rest of the code
}
It is important to note that applying this workaround is not a permanent solution and updating to the fixed versions is strongly recommended.
Conclusion
The vulnerability in phpMyAdmin versions 4.0.x, 4.4.x, and 4.5.x allows remote attackers to bypass access restrictions by exploiting the insecure comparison of CSRF tokens. To mitigate this vulnerability, it is crucial to update phpMyAdmin to the fixed versions (4.0.10.13, 4.4.15.3, or 4.5.4) that implement a secure comparison algorithm. Applying the temporary workaround of modifying the vulnerable code should only be considered if immediate updating is not feasible. For further assistance and support in vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.
See every vulnerability recorded for phpmyadmin/phpmyadmin →
FAQ
phpMyAdmin is an open-source tool used for managing MySQL databases. It provides a web-based interface for performing various database management tasks.
A CSRF token is a security measure used to protect against Cross-Site Request Forgery attacks. It is a unique token generated for each user session and is included in requests to verify the authenticity of the request.
The vulnerability in phpMyAdmin arises from the insecure comparison of CSRF tokens. By measuring time differences in token comparison, an attacker can determine the correct token value and bypass access restrictions.
This vulnerability can lead to unauthorized actions on the affected phpMyAdmin instance, such as data modification, deletion, or disclosure, depending on the privileges of the targeted user.
The vulnerability has a CVSS score of 7.5, indicating a high severity level.
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