CVE-2009-1285 in phpMyAdmin
Summary
by MITRE
Static code injection vulnerability in the getConfigFile function in setup/lib/ConfigFile.class.php in phpMyAdmin 3.x before 3.1.3.2 allows remote attackers to inject arbitrary PHP code into configuration files.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/01/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2009-1285 represents a critical static code injection flaw within the phpMyAdmin web application framework. This issue resides in the getConfigFile function located within the setup/lib/ConfigFile.class.php file, affecting all versions of phpMyAdmin 3.x prior to the secure 3.1.3.2 release. The flaw enables remote attackers to inject malicious PHP code directly into configuration files, fundamentally compromising the integrity and security of the affected system. The vulnerability specifically targets the configuration management component of phpMyAdmin, which is essential for the application's proper functioning and security posture.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization within the configuration file handling mechanism. When the getConfigFile function processes user-supplied parameters, it fails to properly validate or escape the input data before incorporating it into the configuration file generation process. This insufficient sanitization creates an environment where attacker-controlled data can be seamlessly integrated into the PHP code structure, allowing for arbitrary code execution within the context of the web server. The flaw operates at the application layer and leverages the trust model inherent in the configuration file writing process, where legitimate administrative functions are exploited to facilitate malicious code insertion.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple code injection, as it provides attackers with a pathway to execute arbitrary PHP code on the target server. This capability enables attackers to perform a wide range of malicious activities including but not limited to data exfiltration, privilege escalation, backdoor installation, and complete system compromise. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it allows remote code execution without requiring authentication, making it an attractive target for automated exploitation campaigns. Additionally, the configuration file injection occurs during the setup process, which means that the vulnerability can be exploited even when the application is not actively being used, creating persistent security risks.
Security professionals should recognize this vulnerability as a classic example of CWE-94, which describes the improper control of generation of code, a category that encompasses code injection flaws. The ATT&CK framework would categorize this vulnerability under T1059.007 for 'Command and Scripting Interpreter: PHP' and potentially T1566 for 'Phishing' if exploitation involves social engineering components. Organizations using vulnerable versions of phpMyAdmin should immediately implement mitigations including updating to version 3.1.3.2 or later, implementing network-level restrictions on the setup directory, and conducting comprehensive security audits of configuration files. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of input validation and proper code sanitization in web applications, particularly in administrative interfaces where code generation capabilities exist.