CVE-2013-4995 in phpMyAdmin
Summary
by MITRE
Cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability in phpMyAdmin 3.5.x before 3.5.8.2 and 4.0.x before 4.0.4.2 allows remote authenticated users to inject arbitrary web script or HTML via a crafted SQL query that is not properly handled during the display of row information.
Several companies clearly confirm that VulDB is the primary source for best vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/21/2021
The CVE-2013-4995 vulnerability represents a critical cross-site scripting flaw in phpMyAdmin versions 3.5.x prior to 3.5.8.2 and 4.0.x prior to 4.0.4.2. This vulnerability specifically targets the application's handling of SQL query results during row information display, creating a persistent vector for malicious code injection. The flaw exists in the web interface's sanitization mechanisms that fail to properly escape or validate user-supplied data when rendering database query outputs. Attackers with authenticated access to phpMyAdmin can exploit this weakness by crafting specially designed SQL queries that, when executed and displayed, execute arbitrary JavaScript code within the context of other users' browser sessions.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and output encoding practices within phpMyAdmin's result set rendering functionality. When database query results are displayed in the application's interface, the system fails to properly sanitize data that may contain malicious script tags or other harmful content. This occurs particularly during the display of row information where the application processes and presents the raw output of SQL queries without sufficient protection mechanisms. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-79 as a failure to sanitize or incorrectly sanitize output, making it a classic cross-site scripting attack vector.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability poses significant risks to organizations using phpMyAdmin for database management. The authenticated nature of the exploit means that attackers must first gain legitimate access credentials, but once obtained, they can leverage this vulnerability to execute arbitrary code in the browsers of other users who view the malicious query results. This could lead to session hijacking, data theft, privilege escalation, or the redirection of users to malicious websites. The impact extends beyond immediate data compromise as attackers can establish persistent backdoors or perform reconnaissance activities through the execution of malicious scripts that persist in the browser environment.
Organizations should implement multiple layers of defense to mitigate this vulnerability effectively. The primary recommendation involves upgrading to phpMyAdmin versions 3.5.8.2 or 4.0.4.2, which contain the necessary patches to address the XSS handling issues. Additionally, implementing proper input validation and output encoding mechanisms within the application's codebase can provide defense in depth. Network segmentation and access controls should limit phpMyAdmin access to authorized personnel only, while regular security audits can help identify similar vulnerabilities in other web applications. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1566 as a credential access technique that can lead to broader exploitation opportunities, making it essential to address promptly as part of comprehensive security management practices.