Cross-Site Scripting Vulnerabilities in phpMyAdmin: A Security Concern
Summary
CVE-2016-5705: Multiple cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerabilities in phpMyAdmin 4.4.x before 4.4.15.7 and 4.6.x before 4.6.3 allow remote attackers to inject arbitrary web script or HTML via vectors involving (1) server-privileges cer... Affects phpmyadmin across 6 version ranges.
< 0b7416c5f4439ed3f11c023785f2d4c49a1b09fc
< 03f73d48369703e0d3584699b08e24891c3295b8
< 4:4.6.3-1
< 36df83a97a7f140fdb008b727a94f882847c6a6f
< 57ae483bad33059a885366d5445b7e1f6f29860a
< 364732e309cccb3fb56c938ed8d8bc0e04a3ca98
Fixed in 4:4.6.3-1. 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 functionalities such as database creation, modification, and administration, making it a vital component for developers and database administrators. However, certain versions of phpMyAdmin (4.4.x before 4.4.15.7 and 4.6.x before 4.6.3) are susceptible to multiple cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerabilities, which can compromise the security of applications relying on this tool.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerabilities stem from improper handling of user input in various components of phpMyAdmin. Attackers can exploit these weaknesses to inject arbitrary web scripts or HTML into the application. This can occur through server-privileges certificate data fields on the user privileges page, invalid JSON error messages, database names in central columns, group names, or search names in bookmarks. The ramifications include unauthorized access to sensitive information and potential control over user sessions, leading to further exploitation.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
4:4.6.3-1
This is the first release that contains the fix.
sudo apt-get install --only-upgrade phpmyadminTip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
As a temporary measure, users can restrict access to the phpMyAdmin interface by implementing IP whitelisting or using strong authentication methods. This can help mitigate the risk of exploitation until the software is updated.
Conclusion
The identified cross-site scripting vulnerabilities in phpMyAdmin pose significant security risks to users. It is crucial to upgrade to the latest version to protect against potential attacks. Additionally, utilizing tools like Vulert can help in monitoring and managing vulnerabilities effectively.
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FAQ
The CVSS score of this vulnerability is 6.1, indicating a medium severity level.
phpMyAdmin versions 4.4.x before 4.4.15.7 and 4.6.x before 4.6.3 are affected by these vulnerabilities.
You can use Vulert to monitor and alert for open-source vulnerabilities in your software. Simply upload your manifest file like package-lock.json to check for vulnerabilities.
Exploitation of these vulnerabilities can lead to unauthorized access to sensitive data, session hijacking, and control over user accounts.
Yes, Vulert allows you to monitor vulnerabilities in real-time using just a manifest file, without requiring code access or installation.
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