CVE-2018-10188 in phpMyAdmin
Summary
by MITRE
phpMyAdmin 4.8.0 before 4.8.0-1 has CSRF, allowing an attacker to execute arbitrary SQL statements, related to js/db_operations.js, js/tbl_operations.js, libraries/classes/Operations.php, and sql.php.
VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/02/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-10188 represents a critical cross-site request forgery weakness in phpMyAdmin version 4.8.0 and earlier, specifically affecting the database management interface used by millions of web administrators worldwide. This flaw resides in the application's handling of user requests within the database operations and table operations modules, creating a pathway for malicious actors to execute unauthorized SQL commands against vulnerable systems. The vulnerability spans multiple critical files including js/db_operations.js and js/tbl_operations.js which handle client-side JavaScript operations, libraries/classes/Operations.php which contains server-side logic, and sql.php which processes SQL execution requests, making it particularly dangerous as it affects both frontend and backend components of the application's security architecture.
The technical nature of this CSRF vulnerability stems from phpMyAdmin's failure to properly validate and authenticate requests originating from unauthorized sources, particularly those generated through malicious web pages or crafted attack vectors. When a victim user accesses a compromised website while authenticated to phpMyAdmin, the attacker can craft malicious requests that appear legitimate due to the absence of proper CSRF tokens or validation mechanisms. This weakness allows attackers to perform database operations such as creating, modifying, or deleting tables, executing arbitrary SQL commands, and potentially gaining unauthorized access to sensitive data stored within the database management system. The vulnerability operates under CWE-352, which specifically addresses Cross-Site Request Forgery issues, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1078 which covers valid accounts and T1046 which involves network service scanning.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple data exposure, as it provides attackers with the ability to manipulate database structures and content with potentially devastating consequences for organizations relying on phpMyAdmin for database management. Successful exploitation could result in data loss, data corruption, unauthorized access to sensitive information, and potential privilege escalation within database environments. Organizations using vulnerable versions of phpMyAdmin face significant risk of unauthorized database modifications, which could compromise the integrity and confidentiality of their data assets. The attack vector is particularly insidious because it requires minimal user interaction beyond visiting a malicious website while maintaining an active phpMyAdmin session, making it difficult for users to detect or prevent such attacks. The vulnerability affects all database operations that utilize the affected JavaScript and PHP components, creating a broad attack surface that could be exploited for various malicious purposes including data exfiltration, database modification, and potential lateral movement within network environments.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2018-10188 primarily focus on immediate version upgrades to phpMyAdmin 4.8.0-1 or later releases which contain the necessary CSRF protection mechanisms and validation controls. Organizations should implement comprehensive patch management procedures to ensure all phpMyAdmin installations are updated promptly, particularly given the widespread use of this tool across web hosting environments and enterprise database management systems. Additional protective measures include implementing web application firewalls that can detect and block suspicious CSRF requests, enforcing strict browser security policies, and conducting regular security assessments of database management interfaces. Network administrators should also consider implementing session management controls and monitoring for unusual database activity patterns that might indicate unauthorized access attempts. The vulnerability highlights the critical importance of maintaining current software versions and implementing proper input validation mechanisms to prevent CSRF attacks, as these protections are fundamental to maintaining database security in web-based environments.