CVE-2001-0479 in phpPgAdmin
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in phpPgAdmin 2.2.1 and earlier versions allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a .. (dot dot) in an argument to the sql.php script.
If you want to get the best quality for vulnerability data then you always have to consider VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/06/2025
The directory traversal vulnerability identified in CVE-2001-0479 represents a critical security flaw within phpPgAdmin version 2.2.1 and earlier releases that enables remote attackers to execute arbitrary code through manipulation of input parameters. This vulnerability specifically targets the sql.php script which processes user-supplied arguments without adequate validation or sanitization. The flaw arises from insufficient input filtering that permits attackers to traverse directory structures by exploiting the .. (dot dot) sequence in file paths, thereby gaining unauthorized access to sensitive system resources and potentially executing malicious commands on the underlying server.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper handling of user input within the sql.php script where directory traversal sequences are not properly validated or sanitized before being processed. When an attacker submits a crafted argument containing .. sequences, the application fails to adequately verify the legitimacy of the requested path, allowing the traversal to proceed unchecked. This creates a pathway for attackers to access files outside the intended directory structure, potentially leading to exposure of configuration files, database credentials, and other sensitive information. The vulnerability operates at the application level and can be classified under CWE-22, which specifically addresses Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory, commonly known as Path Traversal.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure to encompass full system compromise capabilities. Attackers can leverage this weakness to execute arbitrary code on the target system, potentially gaining complete administrative control over the database server and associated applications. The remote nature of the exploit means that attackers do not require physical access or local credentials to exploit the vulnerability, making it particularly dangerous in networked environments. This type of vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007, which covers Command and Scripting Interpreter: PowerShell, as the execution of arbitrary code through directory traversal can enable attackers to run malicious scripts or commands on the compromised system.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2001-0479 require immediate remediation through software updates and comprehensive input validation implementations. Organizations should upgrade to phpPgAdmin versions 2.2.2 or later where this vulnerability has been addressed through proper input sanitization and path validation mechanisms. Additionally, implementing proper input filtering that rejects or escapes directory traversal sequences before processing user input provides an effective defensive measure. Network segmentation and access controls should be enforced to limit exposure of vulnerable applications to untrusted networks. The implementation of Web Application Firewalls WAF rules specifically designed to detect and block directory traversal attempts can provide additional protection layers. Security monitoring should include detection of suspicious path traversal patterns in application logs to identify potential exploitation attempts. Organizations should also consider implementing principle of least privilege access controls and regular security assessments to prevent similar vulnerabilities from emerging in other applications within their infrastructure.