File System Traversal Vulnerability in phpMyAdmin: CVE-2016-6614
Summary
UBUNTU-CVE-2016-6614: An issue was discovered in phpMyAdmin involving the %u username replacement functionality of the SaveDir and UploadDir features. 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. 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 file system traversal issue that can compromise the security of the server.
Vulnerability Detail
An issue was discovered in phpMyAdmin involving the %u username replacement functionality of the SaveDir and UploadDir features. When the username substitution is configured, a specially-crafted user name can be used to circumvent restrictions to traverse the file system. This vulnerability affects all 4.6.x versions (prior to 4.6.4), 4.4.x versions (prior to 4.4.15.8), and 4.0.x versions (prior to 4.0.10.17). The potential ramifications include unauthorized access to sensitive files on the server, leading to data breaches and other security incidents.
How To Fix
No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.
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Workaround
As a temporary workaround, users can disable the username substitution feature in the configuration settings of phpMyAdmin to mitigate the risk of exploitation until the package is updated.
Conclusion
The CVE-2016-6614 vulnerability in phpMyAdmin poses significant risks due to its ability to allow file system traversal through manipulated usernames. It is crucial for users to update their installations to the latest patched versions to mitigate these risks and ensure the security of their systems.
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FAQ
CVE-2016-6614 is a vulnerability in phpMyAdmin that allows attackers to exploit the username substitution functionality to traverse the file system.
The vulnerability affects all 4.6.x versions prior to 4.6.4, 4.4.x versions prior to 4.4.15.8, and 4.0.x versions prior to 4.0.10.17.
You can check your phpMyAdmin version and compare it against the affected versions. Additionally, you can use tools like Vulert to monitor and alert for vulnerabilities.
Failing to address this vulnerability can lead to unauthorized access to sensitive files, data breaches, and potential exploitation of the server.
Vulert uses a manifest file to monitor and alert in real-time for open-source vulnerabilities in software, allowing users to stay informed without needing to access the code.
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