Critical Vulnerability in phpMyAdmin: Git Information Exposure
Summary
UBUNTU-CVE-2019-19617: phpMyAdmin before 4.9.2 does not escape certain Git information, related to libraries/classes/Display/GitRevision.php and libraries/classes/Footer.php. Affects phpmyadmin versions < 4:4.0.10-1ubuntu0.1+esm2. Fixed in 4:4.0.10-1ubuntu0.1+esm2. 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, including creating, modifying, and deleting databases and tables. The tool is popular among developers and database administrators for its ease of use and extensive features. However, certain versions of phpMyAdmin are vulnerable to a security flaw that exposes sensitive Git information, potentially compromising the integrity of the application.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability, identified as CVE-2019-19617, affects phpMyAdmin versions prior to 4.9.2. It arises from improper escaping of Git information in specific files, namely libraries/classes/Display/GitRevision.php and libraries/classes/Footer.php. This flaw can lead to unauthorized disclosure of sensitive information, which may be exploited by attackers to gain insights into the application's structure and potentially launch further attacks. The CVSS score for this vulnerability is 9.8, indicating a critical severity level.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
4:4.0.10-1ubuntu0.1+esm2
This is the first release that contains the fix.
sudo apt-get install --only-upgrade phpmyadmin
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Workaround
If immediate updating is not feasible, consider restricting access to the phpMyAdmin interface by implementing IP whitelisting or using a VPN to limit exposure to trusted networks. Additionally, ensure that sensitive information is not stored in the Git repository accessible by phpMyAdmin.
Conclusion
In summary, CVE-2019-19617 is a critical vulnerability affecting phpMyAdmin that can expose sensitive Git information. Users are strongly advised to update to the latest patched versions to mitigate the risk. Implementing workarounds can provide temporary relief, but updating is the most effective solution.
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FAQ
CVE-2019-19617 is a critical vulnerability in phpMyAdmin that exposes sensitive Git information due to improper escaping in certain files.
Versions of phpMyAdmin prior to 4.9.2 are affected by this vulnerability.
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The vulnerability can lead to unauthorized disclosure of sensitive information, which may be exploited by attackers to compromise the application.
The CVSS score of CVE-2019-19617 is 9.8, indicating a critical severity level.
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