CVE-2007-5976 in phpMyAdmin
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in db_create.php in phpMyAdmin before 2.11.2.1 allows remote authenticated users with CREATE DATABASE privileges to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the db parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/16/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-5976 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the phpMyAdmin database management tool that affected versions prior to 2.11.2.1. This vulnerability specifically targets the db_create.php component where the application fails to properly sanitize user input when processing the db parameter. The flaw occurs in the context of authenticated users who possess CREATE DATABASE privileges, making it particularly dangerous as it leverages legitimate administrative permissions to execute malicious code. The vulnerability resides in the application's failure to implement proper input validation and output encoding mechanisms when handling database creation requests, creating an exploitable pathway for attackers to inject malicious SQL commands into the underlying database system.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability follows a classic SQL injection pattern where the db parameter in the db_create.php script does not adequately filter or escape user-supplied input before incorporating it into SQL queries. When an authenticated user with appropriate privileges submits a specially crafted database name containing malicious SQL payload, the application processes this input directly without proper sanitization, allowing the attacker to manipulate the SQL execution flow. This flaw maps directly to CWE-89 which categorizes SQL injection vulnerabilities as weaknesses in software that allows attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands through improper input validation. The vulnerability demonstrates a fundamental breakdown in the principle of least privilege and input validation, where the application trusts user input without proper verification mechanisms.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft or modification, as it provides attackers with the ability to execute arbitrary commands on the underlying database server. This capability enables a wide range of malicious activities including unauthorized data access, data manipulation, privilege escalation, and potentially complete system compromise depending on the database server configuration and the privileges of the database user account. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to extract sensitive information from the database, modify critical system data, create backdoor accounts, or even execute operating system commands if the database server allows such functionality. The vulnerability affects the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of database systems, making it a significant threat to database security and compliance requirements.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-5976 focus primarily on immediate patching and application updates to the latest stable versions of phpMyAdmin where the SQL injection vulnerability has been addressed. Organizations should ensure that all phpMyAdmin installations are updated to version 2.11.2.1 or later, which includes proper input validation and sanitization mechanisms for database creation parameters. Additionally, implementing network segmentation and access controls can limit the exposure of phpMyAdmin interfaces to unauthorized users, while regular security audits and input validation testing should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other applications. The remediation aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190 which covers exploiting vulnerabilities in web applications, and organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls and database activity monitoring solutions to detect and prevent exploitation attempts. The vulnerability underscores the importance of maintaining current software versions and implementing robust input validation practices across all database management interfaces.