CVE-2010-3055 in phpMyAdmin
Summary
by MITRE
The configuration setup script (aka scripts/setup.php) in phpMyAdmin 2.11.x before 2.11.10.1 does not properly restrict key names in its output file, which allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a crafted POST request.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/21/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-3055 resides within the phpMyAdmin web-based database management tool, specifically affecting versions 2.11.x prior to 2.11.10.1. This issue stems from a critical flaw in the configuration setup script known as scripts/setup.php which fails to adequately sanitize or validate key names in its output generation process. The vulnerability represents a classic case of improper input validation that creates an avenue for remote code execution attacks.
The technical flaw manifests when the setup script processes user-provided data through POST requests without implementing proper restrictions on key names that are written to configuration files. Attackers can craft malicious POST requests containing specially formatted key names that, when processed by the vulnerable script, result in the injection of arbitrary PHP code into the output file. This occurs because the script does not properly escape or validate special characters that could be interpreted as PHP code by the web server, creating a path for remote code execution.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe as it allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code on the target server without authentication. This effectively grants attackers full control over the affected system, enabling them to access, modify, or delete database content, steal sensitive information, or establish persistent access through backdoor creation. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous in environments where phpMyAdmin is publicly accessible or deployed in shared hosting environments where multiple users may have access to the application.
This vulnerability aligns with CWE-94, which describes improper control of generation of code, and maps to ATT&CK technique T1190, known as "Exploit Public-Facing Application." The flaw represents a privilege escalation vector that can be exploited from outside the network perimeter, making it particularly attractive to attackers seeking to compromise web servers. Organizations using vulnerable versions of phpMyAdmin are at significant risk of unauthorized access and potential data breaches.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2010-3055 primarily involve upgrading to phpMyAdmin version 2.11.10.1 or later, which contains the necessary patches to address the key name validation issue. Additionally, administrators should implement network-level restrictions to limit access to phpMyAdmin installations, disable unnecessary features, and ensure proper input validation is in place for all user-provided data. Regular security audits and vulnerability assessments should be conducted to identify similar issues in other web applications and ensure that all system components remain up to date with the latest security patches.