CVE-2016-5703 in phpMyAdmin
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in libraries/central_columns.lib.php in phpMyAdmin 4.4.x before 4.4.15.7 and 4.6.x before 4.6.3 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via a crafted database name that is mishandled in a central column query.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/26/2024
The CVE-2016-5703 vulnerability represents a critical sql injection flaw in phpMyAdmin that affects versions 4.4.x before 4.4.15.7 and 4.6.x before 4.6.3. This vulnerability specifically targets the libraries/central_columns.lib.php file which handles central column functionality within the phpMyAdmin interface. The flaw arises from improper handling of database names in central column queries, creating a pathway for remote attackers to execute arbitrary sql commands against the underlying database system. The vulnerability falls under the common weakness enumeration CWE-89 which categorizes sql injection attacks as a fundamental security flaw in application code that fails to properly sanitize user input before incorporating it into sql queries.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker crafts a malicious database name that gets processed through the central columns library without proper input validation or sanitization. This mishandling allows the attacker to inject malicious sql fragments into the query execution flow, potentially enabling full database compromise including data exfiltration, unauthorized data modification, or even complete system access depending on the database user permissions. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it leverages the legitimate central columns functionality of phpMyAdmin, making the attack vector more subtle and harder to detect through standard security monitoring.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability poses significant risk to organizations using phpMyAdmin as their database management interface. The remote nature of the attack means that adversaries can exploit the flaw from anywhere on the internet without requiring local access or credentials to the database server itself. The impact extends beyond simple data theft to include potential system compromise, as attackers can execute administrative sql commands that may grant them elevated privileges or access to other database resources. This vulnerability directly aligns with attack techniques documented in the attack pattern taxonomy under the category of sql injection attacks that target web application interfaces.
Organizations should immediately implement mitigations including upgrading to patched versions of phpMyAdmin where available, applying proper input validation and sanitization measures, and implementing network-level protections such as web application firewalls. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input handling in database interface applications and highlights the need for regular security updates and vulnerability assessments. Additionally, implementing principle of least privilege for database users and monitoring sql query patterns can help detect and prevent exploitation attempts. This vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of securing database management interfaces which often serve as attack vectors for broader network compromises.