Cross-Site Scripting Vulnerability in phpMyAdmin: CVE-2011-4782
Summary
DEBIAN-CVE-2011-4782: Cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability in libraries/config/ConfigFile.class.php in the setup interface in phpMyAdmin 3.4.x before 3.4.9 allows remote attackers to inject arbitrary web script or HTML via the host parame... Affects phpmyadmin versions < 4:3.4.9-1. Fixed in 4:3.4.9-1. 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 allows users to perform various database operations such as creating, modifying, and deleting databases, tables, and records. The tool is popular among developers and database administrators for its ease of use and extensive features. However, phpMyAdmin versions prior to 3.4.9 are vulnerable to a cross-site scripting (XSS) attack, which can compromise the security of the application and its users.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2011-4782 exists in the setup interface of phpMyAdmin 3.4.x before version 3.4.9. It allows remote attackers to inject arbitrary web scripts or HTML via the 'host' parameter in the libraries/config/ConfigFile.class.php file. This XSS vulnerability can lead to unauthorized actions being performed on behalf of the user, potentially exposing sensitive information or allowing further attacks on the system.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
4:3.4.9-1
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 workaround, you can restrict access to the phpMyAdmin setup interface by implementing IP whitelisting or using authentication methods to limit exposure to trusted users only. Additionally, ensure that your web server is configured to sanitize user inputs to mitigate the risk of XSS attacks.
Conclusion
CVE-2011-4782 is a significant cross-site scripting vulnerability affecting older versions of phpMyAdmin. It is crucial for users to update to the patched version to protect against potential attacks. Implementing workarounds and monitoring tools like Vulert can further enhance security.
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FAQ
CVE-2011-4782 is a cross-site scripting vulnerability found in phpMyAdmin versions prior to 3.4.9, allowing attackers to inject malicious scripts via the 'host' parameter.
You can check your phpMyAdmin version by logging into the interface and looking for the version number. If it is below 3.4.9, it is vulnerable.
The vulnerability can lead to unauthorized actions, data exposure, and further attacks on the system, compromising user security.
Yes, tools like Vulert can monitor your applications for open-source vulnerabilities in real-time using a manifest file like package-lock.json.
You can use the Vulert playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected by vulnerabilities without any signup.
References
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