Critical Vulnerability in phpMyAdmin: Bypass of AllowRoot Restriction
Summary
UBUNTU-CVE-2016-9849: An issue was discovered in phpMyAdmin. Affects phpmyadmin versions < 4:4.0.10-1ubuntu0.1+esm3. Fixed in 4:4.0.10-1ubuntu0.1+esm3. 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 provides a user-friendly way to interact with databases, allowing users to perform various operations such as creating databases, executing SQL queries, and managing users. However, certain versions of phpMyAdmin are vulnerable to a security flaw that allows unauthorized access through a bypass of the AllowRoot restriction.
Vulnerability Detail
An issue was discovered in phpMyAdmin that allows attackers to bypass the AllowRoot restriction by using a Null Byte in the username. This vulnerability affects all 4.6.x versions prior to 4.6.5, 4.4.x versions prior to 4.4.15.9, and 4.0.x versions prior to 4.0.10.18. The potential ramifications include unauthorized access to the database, which can lead to data breaches and loss of sensitive information. The vulnerability has a CVSS score of 9.8, indicating its critical nature.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
4:4.0.10-1ubuntu0.1+esm3
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, it is advisable to restrict access to the phpMyAdmin interface by implementing IP whitelisting or using additional authentication methods to prevent unauthorized access until the package is updated.
Conclusion
In summary, the discovered vulnerability in phpMyAdmin allows for a critical bypass of the AllowRoot restriction, posing significant risks to database security. It is crucial for users to update to the patched versions of phpMyAdmin to mitigate these risks and ensure the safety of their data.
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FAQ
The vulnerability allows attackers to bypass the AllowRoot restriction in phpMyAdmin using a Null Byte in the username.
All 4.6.x versions prior to 4.6.5, 4.4.x versions prior to 4.4.15.9, and 4.0.x versions prior to 4.0.10.18 are affected.
The vulnerability can lead to unauthorized access to databases, resulting in data breaches and loss of sensitive information.
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 CVSS score of this vulnerability is 9.8, indicating a critical level of risk.
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