Phpmyadmin Hacktricks Patched

A historic but instructive trick. Old versions allowed attackers to manipulate the $cfg['ThemePath'] or $cfg['Lang'] parameters to include local files (e.g., /etc/passwd ).

Before its patch, the LFI vulnerability in phpMyAdmin 4.8.1 (CVE-2018-12613) was a severe threat, allowing authenticated attackers to include arbitrary local files on the server. The exploit originated from a flawed whitelist check on redirected pages, allowing attackers to bypass security filters. By appending a null byte and a local file path ( /etc/passwd ) to a legitimate request, an attacker could read sensitive system files. This vulnerability could be escalated to full remote code execution (RCE) by chaining it with a file write technique, such as leveraging SQL queries to write a PHP payload into a log file which was then included.

This blocks automated scanners even if a phpMyAdmin zero-day exists.

3. Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) and Cross-Site Request Forgery (CSRF)

: Discussions on how attackers historically used phpMyAdmin for SQL injection or gaining shell access. phpmyadmin hacktricks patched

Alter application logic, inject malicious admin users into web applications, or manipulate financial transactions.

: As noted by contributors on LinkedIn , phpMyAdmin can be a significant entry point for hackers if left exposed on live servers.

Exploiting Misconfigurations (The config.inc.php Vulnerability)

The "HackTricks" philosophy revolves around exploring known, classic exploitation techniques. However, because security researchers and phpMyAdmin developers are proactive, most of the techniques aimed at older versions (e.g., 4.7.x and below) are ineffective against current versions. A historic but instructive trick

If you are running a server, verify your version now and upgrade to the latest release to protect your data. If you'd like, I can:

The term "patched" signifies that the development team has officially addressed a flaw, rendering the HackTricks methodology for that specific version obsolete. Key milestones include: Vulnerability (CVE) Attack Type Status & Patch CVE-2018-12613 LFI to RCE

This report analyzes the security posture of in relation to the popular penetration testing resource HackTricks . While HackTricks provides a comprehensive roadmap for exploiting outdated versions, modern patches have effectively neutralized these "classic" attack vectors. ⚡ Executive Summary

The MySQL secure_file_priv variable is typically set to a specific directory or NULL , preventing phpMyAdmin from writing files to the web root. The exploit originated from a flawed whitelist check

phpMyAdmin is a powerful tool but comes with significant risks. Attackers can exploit misconfigurations like auth_type=config for easy access, use SQL injection or LFI/RFI to escalate privileges, and achieve RCE via vulnerable components like the setup script. Regular patching, network access control, disabling the /setup directory, and employing strong authentication methods are crucial for defense.

Attackers could use Local File Inclusion (LFI) to call a PHP file, such as a session file, and execute it. Patch Status: Patched. This was fixed in version 4.8.2. 2. CVE-2020-10802 & SQL Injection (SQLi)

Security researchers and penetration testers frequently use , a massive, community-driven information security wiki, to find vectors for bypassing authentication, escalating privileges, and executing arbitrary code.