Predictable Temporary File Vulnerability in phpMyAdmin - CVE-2008-7252
Summary
CVE-2008-7252: libraries/File.class.php in phpMyAdmin 2.11.x before 2.11.10 uses predictable filenames for temporary files, which has unknown impact and attack vectors. Affects phpmyadmin versions < 4:3.0.0-1. Fixed in 4:3.0.0-1. How to fix ↓
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Background
phpMyAdmin is a widely-used open-source tool written in PHP, designed to handle the administration of MySQL databases through a web interface. It allows users to perform various database operations such as creating, modifying, and deleting databases, tables, and rows. The tool is popular among developers and database administrators due to its user-friendly interface and extensive features. However, certain versions of phpMyAdmin, specifically 2.11.x prior to 2.11.10, are vulnerable to a security issue related to the use of predictable filenames for temporary files, which can lead to potential security risks.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-7252 resides in the libraries/File.class.php file of phpMyAdmin versions 2.11.x before 2.11.10. It involves the use of predictable filenames for temporary files, which can be exploited by attackers. The exact impact and attack vectors are not fully defined, but the predictability of these filenames could allow unauthorized access to sensitive data or manipulation of temporary files, leading to further security breaches.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
4:3.0.0-1
This is the first release that contains the fix.
sudo apt-get install --only-upgrade phpmyadmin
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Workaround
As a temporary measure, users can restrict access to the directory where temporary files are stored, ensuring that unauthorized users cannot access these files. However, this is not a permanent solution and upgrading to the latest version is strongly advised.
Conclusion
CVE-2008-7252 is a significant vulnerability affecting certain versions of phpMyAdmin, which can lead to unauthorized access due to predictable temporary filenames. Users are strongly encouraged to upgrade to version 2.11.10 or later to mitigate this risk. For those unable to upgrade immediately, restricting access to temporary file directories is advised as a temporary measure.
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FAQ
CVE-2008-7252 is a vulnerability in phpMyAdmin that involves the use of predictable filenames for temporary files, potentially allowing unauthorized access or manipulation.
The vulnerability affects phpMyAdmin versions 2.11.x prior to 2.11.10.
You can use Vulert's playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected by this vulnerability without requiring any signup.
If immediate upgrading is not possible, restrict access to the directory containing temporary files as a temporary workaround.
More information about phpMyAdmin can be found on its official website at https://www.phpmyadmin.net.
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