CVE-2001-0478 in phpMyAdmin
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in phpMyAdmin 2.2.0 and earlier versions allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a .. (dot dot) in an argument to the sql.php script.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/06/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2001-0478 represents a critical directory traversal flaw within phpMyAdmin versions 2.2.0 and earlier, fundamentally compromising the security posture of web-based database management systems. This vulnerability specifically targets the sql.php script which processes user input without adequate sanitization or validation mechanisms. The flaw enables attackers to manipulate file paths through directory traversal sequences using the .. (dot dot) notation, allowing unauthorized access to arbitrary files on the server filesystem. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and improper path handling within the application's file access routines, creating an exploitable condition that can be leveraged for remote code execution.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability operates through the manipulation of input parameters that are directly passed to file system operations within the sql.php script. When users provide arguments containing directory traversal sequences, the application fails to properly sanitize these inputs before using them in file access operations. This allows attackers to navigate beyond the intended directory boundaries and access files that should remain restricted, potentially including configuration files, database credentials, or other sensitive system resources. The vulnerability is classified as a CWE-22 Directory Traversal attack pattern, where the attacker manipulates the input to gain access to files outside the intended scope of the application's file access operations. The flaw directly enables path traversal attacks that can be executed remotely without authentication, making it particularly dangerous in web environments where phpMyAdmin is exposed to untrusted networks.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file access to encompass full system compromise potential through remote code execution capabilities. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to execute arbitrary code on the target system by accessing and potentially executing malicious scripts or by reading sensitive configuration files that contain database credentials and system information. The vulnerability affects not only the confidentiality of database contents but also the integrity and availability of the entire hosting environment. Organizations running vulnerable versions of phpMyAdmin face significant risk of data breaches, system compromise, and potential lateral movement within their network infrastructure, as attackers can use the compromised system as a foothold for further attacks. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for Command and Scripting Interpreter, where adversaries can execute code through web-based interfaces, and T1083 for File and Directory Discovery, where attackers can enumerate system files and directories.
The remediation strategy for CVE-2001-0478 requires immediate implementation of the vendor-provided security patches and updates to phpMyAdmin versions 2.2.1 and later, which contain proper input validation and sanitization mechanisms. Organizations must also implement additional security controls including web application firewalls, input validation at multiple layers, and regular security audits of web applications. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper input validation and the principle of least privilege in web application security design. Security measures should include restricting file access permissions, implementing proper authentication mechanisms, and conducting regular vulnerability assessments to identify similar path traversal vulnerabilities in other applications. System administrators should also monitor for exploitation attempts and maintain up-to-date security information feeds to stay informed about similar vulnerabilities in related software components. The vulnerability serves as a historical example of how inadequate input validation can lead to complete system compromise, emphasizing the need for robust security practices in web application development and maintenance.