Critical Vulnerability in phpMyAdmin: Weak Password Generation Mechanism
Summary
UBUNTU-CVE-2016-1927: The suggestPassword function in js/functions.js in phpMyAdmin 4.0.x before 4.0.10.13, 4.4.x before 4.4.15.3, and 4.5.x before 4.5.4 relies on the Math.random JavaScript function, which makes it easier for remote attacker... Affects phpmyadmin versions 4:4.0.10-1 – 4:4.0.9-1. No fix is published. 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, tables, and records. The tool is popular among developers and database administrators for its ease of use and extensive features. However, a vulnerability has been identified in versions 4.0.x, 4.4.x, and 4.5.x, which compromises the security of password generation, making it susceptible to brute-force attacks.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability, identified as CVE-2016-1927, arises from the suggestPassword function in js/functions.js of phpMyAdmin versions prior to 4.0.10.13, 4.4.15.3, and 4.5.4. This function relies on the Math.random JavaScript function for generating passwords, which is not cryptographically secure. As a result, attackers can exploit this weakness to guess passwords through brute-force methods, potentially gaining unauthorized access to sensitive database information.
How To Fix
No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.
Tip — Not sure whether your app is affected? Vulert can check the versions your app actually runs. Scan free →
Workaround
As a temporary workaround, users can implement stronger password policies and avoid using the suggestPassword function until the software is updated. Additionally, consider using a password manager to generate secure passwords.
Conclusion
The vulnerability CVE-2016-1927 in phpMyAdmin poses a significant risk due to its reliance on an insecure password generation method. It is crucial for users to update their installations to the latest patched versions to mitigate this risk and protect their database environments.
See every vulnerability recorded for phpmyadmin →
FAQ
CVE-2016-1927 is a vulnerability in phpMyAdmin that allows attackers to guess passwords due to the use of an insecure random number generator.
The affected versions are phpMyAdmin 4.0.x before 4.0.10.13, 4.4.x before 4.4.15.3, and 4.5.x before 4.5.4.
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 immediate updates are not possible, implement strong password policies and consider using a password manager to generate secure passwords.
The CVSS score for this vulnerability is 7.5, indicating a high severity level.
Related vulnerabilities
Recent vulnerabilities recorded for phpmyadmin.
