CVE-2020-11441 Scanner

phpMyAdmin is widely used software by database administrators to manage MySQL databases via a web interface. It is utilized in various environments, ranging from small personal projects to large commercial websites, due to its powerful features and user-friendly interface. The software provides functionalities like database management, server configuration, and SQL query execution. Known for its flexibility and extensive documentation, phpMyAdmin is chosen for managing web-based database systems. Users appreciate its streamlined interface, which simplifies complex database operations. Overall, it serves as a critical tool in web development and database management sectors.

The CRLF Injection vulnerability in phpMyAdmin allows an attacker to manipulate HTTP request headers. By injecting special character sequences, attackers can exploit the line feed and carriage return characters in input fields. This vulnerability is potentially harmful as it can be leveraged for further attacks, such as HTTP response splitting. However, the vendor has noted that this specific instance is not easily exploitable. Despite this, if left unaddressed, such vulnerabilities can still pose security risks. Understanding and mitigating CRLF Injection vulnerabilities are vital for maintaining secure web applications.

CRLF Injection occurs when user input is not properly sanitized, allowing attackers to insert carriage return and line feed characters. In the phpMyAdmin 5.0.2 version, the vulnerability is noted within login form fields. Using inputs like "%0D%0Astring%0D%0A" can reflect CRLF sequences onto error pages. The vulnerable endpoint involves the login form where these unsanitized inputs create the injection possibility. Attackers craft specific payloads that exploit these character injections, potentially altering the application's behavior. Measures need to be taken to properly sanitize and validate inputs to mitigate this issue.

When exploited, CRLF Injection can have several potential effects. It can lead to HTTP response splitting, where an attacker can inject content or scripts in a way manipulated by the victim. This could potentially facilitate phishing attacks by redirecting users to malicious sites. Additionally, it can lead to cross-site scripting (XSS) or other code injection attacks. In some instances, it could also lead to the manipulation of cookie data or headers. To prevent such exploits, improving input validation and employing appropriate security headers is crucial.

REFERENCES

• https://github.com/phpmyadmin/phpmyadmin/issues/16056
• https://nvd.nist.gov/vuln/detail/CVE-2020-11441