Username Matching Vulnerability in phpMyAdmin: CVE-2016-9850
Summary
ALPINE-CVE-2016-9850: An issue was discovered in phpMyAdmin. Affects phpmyadmin versions < 4.4.15.9-r0. Fixed in 4.4.15.9-r0. How to fix ↓
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Background
phpMyAdmin is a widely-used open-source tool for managing MySQL databases through a web interface. It provides a user-friendly way to perform database operations, including creating, modifying, and deleting databases and tables. However, certain versions of phpMyAdmin are vulnerable to a security issue that affects how username matching is handled in allow/deny rules, potentially leading to unauthorized access.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability, identified as CVE-2016-9850, arises from improper username matching for allow/deny rules in phpMyAdmin. This issue can result in incorrect matches due to non-constant execution time, allowing an attacker to exploit the vulnerability and gain unauthorized access to the database. All versions of phpMyAdmin prior to 4.6.5 (for 4.6.x), 4.4.15.9 (for 4.4.x), and 4.0.10.18 (for 4.0.x) are affected, making it critical for users to update to patched versions to mitigate risks.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
4.4.15.9-r0
This is the first release that contains the fix.
sudo apk add --upgrade phpmyadminTip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
As a temporary workaround, consider implementing stricter access controls and monitoring user activity to detect any unauthorized access attempts until the package can be updated.
Conclusion
In summary, CVE-2016-9850 is a significant vulnerability in phpMyAdmin that can lead to unauthorized access due to improper username matching. It is crucial for users to update to the patched versions to safeguard their databases and maintain security.
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FAQ
CVE-2016-9850 is a vulnerability in phpMyAdmin that affects username matching for allow/deny rules, potentially allowing unauthorized access.
All versions prior to 4.6.5 for 4.6.x, 4.4.15.9 for 4.4.x, and 4.0.10.18 for 4.0.x are affected.
You can use Vulert's playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected by this vulnerability without needing to sign up.
The CVSS score for this vulnerability is 5.3, indicating a moderate level of severity.
Ensure you update phpMyAdmin to the latest patched version and implement strict access controls to mitigate risks.
References
Related vulnerabilities
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