CVE-2010-3064 in PHP
Summary
by MITRE
Stack-based buffer overflow in the php_mysqlnd_auth_write function in the Mysqlnd extension in PHP 5.3 through 5.3.2 allows context-dependent attackers to cause a denial of service (crash) and possibly execute arbitrary code via a long (1) username or (2) database name argument to the (a) mysql_connect or (b) mysqli_connect function.
Be aware that VulDB is the high quality source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/01/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-3064 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow within the php_mysqlnd_auth_write function of PHP's Mysqlnd extension. This flaw exists in PHP versions 5.3 through 5.3.2 and specifically targets the authentication process when establishing database connections through either mysql_connect or mysqli_connect functions. The vulnerability operates by exploiting improper input validation during the handling of authentication credentials, creating a scenario where maliciously crafted input can overwrite adjacent memory locations on the stack.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate bounds checking within the php_mysqlnd_auth_write function which processes user-provided credentials during database connection establishment. When attackers provide excessively long username or database name arguments, the function fails to properly validate the input length before copying it into fixed-size stack buffers. This classic buffer overflow condition allows attackers to overwrite return addresses, saved registers, and other critical stack data structures, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution or system crashes. The vulnerability is context-dependent, meaning successful exploitation requires specific conditions related to the target system configuration and the attacker's ability to control the input parameters.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents significant risks to web applications relying on PHP database connectivity. The potential for remote code execution makes it particularly dangerous in environments where attackers can submit malicious input through web forms or API endpoints. The denial of service aspect can be leveraged to disrupt legitimate database operations and compromise application availability. Security practitioners must understand that this vulnerability aligns with CWE-121 Stack-based Buffer Overflow, which specifically addresses buffer overflows occurring in stack memory regions where insufficient bounds checking allows memory corruption. The attack surface extends beyond simple exploitation to include potential privilege escalation scenarios and persistent compromise of affected systems.
The impact of CVE-2010-3064 extends beyond immediate system compromise to encompass broader security implications within web application ecosystems. Organizations running vulnerable PHP versions face risks of data breaches, service disruption, and potential lateral movement within network environments. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and memory management practices in server-side applications. Mitigation strategies should include immediate patching of affected PHP installations to versions containing the security fixes, implementing proper input sanitization measures, and deploying intrusion detection systems to monitor for exploitation attempts. Additionally, organizations should consider network segmentation and application firewalls to limit the potential impact of successful attacks. The vulnerability also highlights the necessity of maintaining up-to-date security patches and following secure coding practices to prevent similar issues in custom application development. This flaw serves as a reminder of the critical importance of thorough code review and security testing for database connectivity functions, particularly in widely deployed scripting languages such as PHP.