Access Restriction Bypass in phpMyAdmin 4.1.x and 4.2.x
Summary
UBUNTU-CVE-2014-4987: server_user_groups.php in phpMyAdmin 4.1.x before 4.1.14.2 and 4.2.x before 4.2.6 allows remote authenticated users to bypass intended access restrictions and read the MySQL user list via a viewUsers request. Affects phpmyadmin versions 4:4.0.10-1 – 4:4.0.9-1. No fix is published. 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, as well as executing SQL queries. The affected versions, 4.1.x before 4.1.14.2 and 4.2.x before 4.2.6, contain a vulnerability that permits remote authenticated users to bypass access restrictions.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability exists in the server_user_groups.php file of phpMyAdmin, where remote authenticated users can exploit a flaw in the access control mechanism. This allows them to execute a viewUsers request, which can reveal the MySQL user list, potentially exposing sensitive information about database users and their privileges. This issue arises from inadequate validation of user permissions, leading to unauthorized access.
How To Fix
No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.
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Workaround
As a temporary workaround, restrict access to the phpMyAdmin interface by implementing IP whitelisting or using additional authentication methods to limit who can access the tool until the package is updated.
Conclusion
The vulnerability in phpMyAdmin allows remote authenticated users to bypass access restrictions, posing a risk to database security. It is crucial to update to the latest version to mitigate this risk and implement additional security measures to protect your database.
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FAQ
phpMyAdmin is a free and open-source web-based application that allows users to manage MySQL databases easily.
The vulnerability affects phpMyAdmin versions 4.1.x before 4.1.14.2 and 4.2.x before 4.2.6.
You can use Vulert's playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected by this vulnerability without needing to sign up.
The vulnerability can lead to unauthorized access to sensitive MySQL user information, which could be exploited for further attacks on the database.
In addition to updating to the latest version, consider implementing strong passwords, using HTTPS, and restricting access to trusted IP addresses.
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