CVE-2004-1148 in phpMyAdmin
Summary
by MITRE
phpMyAdmin before 2.6.1, when configured with UploadDir functionality, allows remote attackers to read arbitrary files via the sql_localfile parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/27/2019
The vulnerability described in CVE-2004-1148 represents a critical file inclusion flaw in phpMyAdmin versions prior to 2.6.1 that specifically exploits the UploadDir functionality. This vulnerability enables remote attackers to bypass normal file access controls and retrieve arbitrary files from the server filesystem through a carefully crafted sql_localfile parameter. The flaw exists within the database administration tool's handling of local file uploads and subsequent file operations, creating a path for unauthorized data exfiltration from the target system.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization within phpMyAdmin's file handling mechanisms. When the UploadDir feature is enabled, the application accepts user-supplied parameters without proper verification of their contents or intended destination. The sql_localfile parameter serves as the attack vector, allowing malicious actors to specify file paths that should normally be restricted. This weakness directly maps to CWE-22, which describes improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal attacks. The vulnerability exploits the fundamental principle that applications should never trust user input and must validate all external data sources before processing them.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability poses significant risks to database administrators and system operators who rely on phpMyAdmin for database management tasks. Remote attackers can leverage this flaw to access sensitive files including configuration files, database credentials, application source code, and potentially system files that contain critical information. The impact extends beyond simple data theft, as attackers may discover additional vulnerabilities or gain insights into the system architecture that could facilitate further exploitation. The attack requires no authentication and can be executed from any remote location, making it particularly dangerous in environments where phpMyAdmin is exposed to untrusted networks.
The security implications of this vulnerability align with several ATT&CK framework techniques including T1083 (File and Directory Discovery) and T1566 (Phishing with Malicious Attachments) where the attacker can discover and exfiltrate sensitive information. Organizations using vulnerable versions of phpMyAdmin face potential data breaches, compliance violations, and system compromise. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of input validation and proper access controls in web applications. Systems administrators should immediately implement mitigations including upgrading to phpMyAdmin version 2.6.1 or later, disabling the UploadDir functionality when not required, and implementing proper network segmentation to limit exposure. Additionally, regular security audits and vulnerability assessments should be conducted to identify similar flaws in other web applications and database management tools that may present similar attack surfaces.