CVE-2006-4756 in phpMyDirectory
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in alpha.php in phpMyDirectory 10.4.6 and earlier allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the letter parameter. NOTE: the provenance of this information is unknown; the details are obtained from third party information.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/04/2018
This vulnerability represents a classic sql injection flaw in the phpMyDirectory web application that affects versions 10.4.6 and earlier. The vulnerability specifically targets the alpha.php script where user input from the letter parameter is not properly sanitized or validated before being incorporated into sql queries. The attack vector allows remote unauthenticated attackers to inject malicious sql commands directly into the application's database layer through carefully crafted input. This type of vulnerability falls under the category of cwe-89 sql injection as defined by the common weakness enumeration framework, which specifically addresses the improper handling of sql queries that can lead to unauthorized database access. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it enables attackers to execute arbitrary sql commands without requiring any authentication credentials, making it a critical security risk for systems running vulnerable versions of phpMyDirectory.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs when the letter parameter value is directly concatenated into sql statements without proper input validation or parameterization. Attackers can manipulate this parameter to inject sql syntax that alters the intended query execution flow, potentially allowing them to extract sensitive data, modify database contents, or even escalate privileges within the database system. The attack typically involves appending malicious sql payloads to the letter parameter that can bypass normal input filtering mechanisms. This vulnerability demonstrates poor input sanitization practices and violates fundamental secure coding principles that emphasize the importance of using parameterized queries or proper escaping functions to prevent sql injection attacks. The vulnerability's classification aligns with attack technique t1071.004 in the attack tactics and techniques framework, which covers application layer protocol manipulation through sql injection.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as it can enable complete database compromise and potentially lead to broader system infiltration. Successful exploitation could result in unauthorized access to all data stored within the phpMyDirectory database, including user credentials, personal information, and potentially sensitive business data. Depending on the database configuration, attackers might also be able to execute operating system commands or gain access to underlying network resources through database-specific features. Organizations running vulnerable versions face significant risk of data breaches, regulatory compliance violations, and potential legal consequences. The vulnerability's remote nature means that attackers can exploit it from anywhere on the internet without requiring physical access to the target system. This makes it particularly attractive to automated attack tools and increases the likelihood of widespread exploitation across multiple systems.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate patching of the affected phpMyDirectory versions, as version 10.4.7 and later contain fixes for this specific issue. Organizations should implement proper input validation and parameterized queries throughout their applications to prevent similar vulnerabilities from occurring in other components. Additionally, network-level protections such as web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can help detect and block malicious sql injection attempts. Database access controls should be implemented to limit the privileges of application accounts and prevent unauthorized data manipulation. Regular security assessments and code reviews should be conducted to identify and remediate similar input validation issues. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of maintaining up-to-date software components and following secure coding practices to prevent sql injection attacks that can have devastating consequences for organizational security posture.