External risk intelligence

phpMyAdmin Configuration File Code Injection Vulnerability

CVE advisoryKnown Exploit

CVE-2009-1151

A vulnerability in phpMyAdmin's setup script allows remote attackers to inject arbitrary PHP code into configuration files. This could lead to unauthorized system access and compromise, posing a significant business risk. Organizations should apply vendor-provided updates to mitigate this threat.

4Halo Surface Signal

Code Injection

Phpmyadmin

2.11.0 to before 2.11.9.53.0.0 to before 3.1.3.14.05.0

External exposure likelihood

Halo Surface Signal score for CVE-2009-1151

phpMyAdmin is a widely deployed, web-based database management interface. It is commonly exposed via web servers for remote administrative access, making its setup and configuration interfaces potentially reachable from the internet if not properly restricted by administrators.

Horizon Alert

Summary of the vulnerability and why it matters

A vulnerability exists within the phpMyAdmin setup script that could allow for unauthorized code injection. This flaw could permit attackers to insert arbitrary PHP code into a configuration file. Such an occurrence could potentially compromise system integrity and lead to unauthorized access or control.

  • Vulnerable component: phpMyAdmin setup script
  • Core weakness: Code injection into configuration
  • Main business impact: System compromise and unauthorized access

Attack Path

How an attacker could exploit the issue

An attacker can inject arbitrary PHP code into a configuration file through the setup script. This vulnerability allows for remote code execution, which could lead to unauthorized access and control of the affected system. The attack exploits a flaw in how the setup script handles user input when saving configuration settings.

  • Publicly accessible setup script
  • Attacker sends crafted request
  • PHP code injected, system compromised

Live Threat

Current exploitation, exposure, and threat context

A remote code injection vulnerability exists within the setup script of phpMyAdmin, affecting specific versions. This flaw allows attackers to insert PHP code into a configuration file, potentially leading to unauthorized access and system compromise. The complexity for an attacker to exploit this is low, and the potential damage is high, indicating a significant business risk. Organizations should prioritize addressing this vulnerability.

  • Likely attacker skill level: Low.
  • Required access or conditions: Network access.
  • Business risk or urgency: High.

Priority actions

Operational Fix

Recommended remediation, mitigation, and detection steps

A vulnerability exists in phpMyAdmin that could allow remote attackers to inject arbitrary PHP code. This could lead to unauthorized code execution within the affected system, posing a significant business risk. Prompt remediation is advised to mitigate potential exploitation.

  • Identify all phpMyAdmin assets.
  • Reduce exposure or isolate risk.
  • Apply vendor fixes, verify, and monitor.

Frequently asked questions

What is phpMyAdmin and what is it used for?

phpMyAdmin is a popular, web-based database management tool. It's commonly used to administer MySQL and MariaDB databases through a graphical interface, allowing users to perform tasks like managing databases, tables, and users without needing to write SQL commands directly.

What kind of weakness does CVE-2009-1151 represent?

CVE-2009-1151 describes a static code injection weakness (CWE-94). This means an attacker can inject code into a configuration file that is then executed by the application, potentially allowing them to run arbitrary commands on the system.

How can an attacker exploit CVE-2009-1151 in phpMyAdmin?

An attacker can exploit this vulnerability by sending a specially crafted request to the phpMyAdmin setup script. This script normally saves configuration settings, but if manipulated, it can be tricked into writing malicious PHP code into a configuration file, which can then be executed.

Who should be concerned about CVE-2009-1151?

Organizations using phpMyAdmin that is accessible from the internet should be particularly concerned. Because phpMyAdmin is a web interface commonly exposed for remote administration, there is a likely chance it could be targeted by attackers.

What is the first step to address CVE-2009-1151 in phpMyAdmin?

The initial step for anyone running affected versions of phpMyAdmin is to identify all instances of the software within their environment. Following that, reducing its exposure, isolating any potential risks, and applying any available updates or patches from the vendor are crucial actions to take.

References