XSS Vulnerability in phpMyAdmin: Navigation Tree Exploit
Summary
CVE-2018-19970: In phpMyAdmin before 4.8.4, an XSS vulnerability was found in the navigation tree, where an attacker can deliver a payload to a user through a crafted database/table name. Affects phpmyadmin across 2 version ranges.
< 4:4.9.1+dfsg1-2
>= 6da64cc3b2ba4439574f914f51e161645375be96, < 56ba19808f020fa8ac63366d450c3928564a91b8
Fixed in 4:4.9.1+dfsg1-2. 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 allows users to perform various database operations such as creating, modifying, and deleting databases and tables. Despite its extensive functionality, phpMyAdmin has been susceptible to vulnerabilities, including cross-site scripting (XSS) attacks, which can compromise user data and application integrity.
Vulnerability Detail
In phpMyAdmin versions prior to 4.8.4, an XSS vulnerability was identified in the navigation tree. This flaw allows attackers to craft malicious database or table names that, when accessed by a user, can execute arbitrary scripts in the user's browser. This can lead to unauthorized actions, data theft, or session hijacking, posing significant risks to users and their data.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
4:4.9.1+dfsg1-2
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 workaround, users can restrict access to phpMyAdmin or implement web application firewalls to filter out potentially malicious requests. However, upgrading to a secure version is the recommended approach.
Conclusion
The XSS vulnerability in phpMyAdmin's navigation tree poses significant risks to users and their data. It is crucial to upgrade to the latest version to mitigate these risks effectively. Utilizing tools like Vulert can help monitor and alert for such vulnerabilities in real-time, ensuring better security for your applications.
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FAQ
The CVSS score of this vulnerability is 6.1, indicating a medium severity level.
You can use Vulert's playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected by this vulnerability without needing to sign up.
If exploited, this vulnerability can lead to unauthorized access, data theft, and potential control over user sessions.
While upgrading is the best solution, you can mitigate risks by restricting access to phpMyAdmin and using web application firewalls.
Versions of phpMyAdmin prior to 4.8.4 are affected by this vulnerability.
References
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