Remote Code Execution Vulnerability in phpMyAdmin: CVE-2016-5734
Summary
CVE-2016-5734: phpMyAdmin 4.0.x before 4.0.10.16, 4.4.x before 4.4.15.7, and 4.6.x before 4.6.3 does not properly choose delimiters to prevent use of the preg_replace e (aka eval) modifier, which might allow remote attackers to execute... Affects phpmyadmin across 3 version ranges.
< 1cc7466db3a05e95fe57a6702f41773e6829d54b
< 4:4.6.3-1
< 4bcc606225f15bac0b07780e74f667f6ac283da7
Fixed in 4:4.6.3-1. How to fix ↓
Check if this vulnerability affects your application
Upload a manifest or SBOM and we'll show whether you're affected, plus every other risky package in the same scan.
No signup required · Results in about 60 seconds
Background
phpMyAdmin is a widely-used open-source tool for managing MySQL databases through a web interface. It allows users to perform various database operations such as creating, modifying, and deleting databases and tables. The tool is known for its user-friendly interface and extensive features, making it a popular choice among developers and database administrators. However, certain versions of phpMyAdmin are vulnerable to a critical security flaw that could allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code.
Vulnerability Detail
CVE-2016-5734 is a vulnerability found in phpMyAdmin versions 4.0.x before 4.0.10.16, 4.4.x before 4.4.15.7, and 4.6.x before 4.6.3. The issue arises from improper delimiter selection in the preg_replace function, which can lead to the use of the eval modifier. This flaw can be exploited by remote attackers through crafted strings, potentially allowing them to execute arbitrary PHP code on the server. The ramifications of this vulnerability are severe, as it could lead to unauthorized access, data manipulation, or complete server compromise.
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
If an immediate upgrade is not possible, consider restricting access to the phpMyAdmin interface by implementing IP whitelisting or using a VPN. Additionally, ensure that your server is configured with appropriate security measures, such as firewalls and intrusion detection systems, to mitigate potential exploitation of this vulnerability.
Conclusion
CVE-2016-5734 is a critical vulnerability in phpMyAdmin that can lead to remote code execution. Users are strongly advised to upgrade to the latest version to protect their systems. If immediate upgrades are not feasible, implementing workarounds can help mitigate risks until a proper fix is applied.
See every vulnerability recorded for phpmyadmin →
FAQ
The affected versions are phpMyAdmin 4.0.x before 4.0.10.16, 4.4.x before 4.4.15.7, and 4.6.x before 4.6.3.
The CVSS score for CVE-2016-5734 is 9.8, indicating a critical level of severity.
You can use Vulert to monitor and alert in real-time for open-source vulnerabilities. Visit the Vulert playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected without needing to sign up.
Exploitation of this vulnerability could lead to remote code execution, allowing attackers to gain unauthorized access to the server, manipulate data, or compromise the entire system.
Yes, you can implement IP whitelisting, use a VPN, and ensure your server has strong security measures like firewalls to reduce the risk of exploitation.
Related vulnerabilities
Recent vulnerabilities recorded for phpmyadmin.
