CVE-2012-5159 in phpMyAdmin
Summary
by MITRE
phpMyAdmin 3.5.2.2, as distributed by the cdnetworks-kr-1 mirror during an unspecified time frame in 2012, contains an externally introduced modification (Trojan Horse) in server_sync.php, which allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via an eval injection attack.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/15/2025
The vulnerability CVE-2012-5159 represents a critical security flaw in phpMyAdmin version 3.5.2.2 that was specifically introduced through a malicious modification distributed via the cdnetworks-kr-1 mirror. This trojan horse attack demonstrates how supply chain compromises can lead to severe remote code execution vulnerabilities in widely used open source software. The malicious code was embedded within the server_sync.php file, which is typically used for synchronizing server configurations and maintaining connections between phpMyAdmin and the underlying database management system. The vulnerability specifically targets the eval function within the modified script, creating an injection vector that allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code on the affected system. This type of attack falls under the category of supply chain compromise where legitimate software distribution channels are infiltrated to distribute malicious code, making it particularly dangerous as users trust the software source.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability relies on the improper handling of user input within the server_sync.php file, where the eval function is used without adequate sanitization or validation of the input parameters. This creates a classic injection attack surface that enables attackers to inject malicious PHP code that gets executed within the context of the web server process. The vulnerability is classified as a CWE-94 (Improper Control of Generation of Code) under the Common Weakness Enumeration framework, specifically representing an improper use of the eval function that allows arbitrary code execution. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability by crafting malicious input that gets processed by the eval function, thereby bypassing normal execution boundaries and gaining unauthorized access to the system. The impact is particularly severe because phpMyAdmin is commonly used by database administrators, and when compromised, attackers can potentially gain full control over database operations and underlying server resources.
The operational impact of CVE-2012-5159 extends far beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with complete control over database management operations and can potentially lead to data breaches, privilege escalation, and system compromise. The vulnerability affects systems where phpMyAdmin is installed and accessible via web interfaces, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where database administration tools are widely deployed. Organizations that were unknowingly running the compromised version of phpMyAdmin faced significant risk of unauthorized database access, data exfiltration, and potential lateral movement within their network infrastructure. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 (Unix Shell) and T1059.006 (Windows Command Shell) as attackers could leverage the remote code execution capabilities to establish persistent access and perform further malicious activities. The supply chain attack vector also represents a broader concern for security practitioners, as it demonstrates how even trusted software distribution channels can be compromised to deliver malicious payloads.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2012-5159 require immediate verification of software integrity through cryptographic checksums and digital signatures, as well as implementing comprehensive monitoring for unauthorized modifications to critical system files. Organizations should conduct thorough audits of their phpMyAdmin installations to identify and replace any compromised versions, ensuring that all software is obtained from official sources and verified through established distribution channels. The remediation process must include not only updating to patched versions of phpMyAdmin but also implementing proper software integrity verification mechanisms to prevent future supply chain compromises. Security teams should implement network monitoring to detect suspicious code execution patterns and establish incident response procedures for handling compromised software installations. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing web application firewalls and input validation controls to reduce the impact of similar vulnerabilities in other components of their infrastructure. The vulnerability serves as a critical reminder of the importance of supply chain security and the necessity of verifying software integrity through multiple verification mechanisms beyond simple version checks.