CVE-2023-25727 is a cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability identified in phpMyAdmin, a widely used web-based database management tool for MySQL and MariaDB. The vulnerability exists in versions prior to 4.9.11 and 5.x before 5.2.1. It allows an authenticated user to upload a maliciously crafted .sql file through the drag-and-drop interface, which then triggers the XSS condition. This occurs because the application fails to properly sanitize or encode the contents or metadata of the uploaded SQL file before rendering it in the user interface, enabling injection of arbitrary JavaScript code. The vulnerability requires the attacker to have valid credentials (authenticated user) and to perform user interaction (uploading the file). The CVSS 3.1 base score is 5.4 (medium), with vector AV:N/AC:L/PR:L/UI:R/S:C/C:L/I:L/A:N, indicating network attack vector, low attack complexity, privileges required, user interaction required, scope changed, and limited confidentiality and integrity impact without availability impact. No public exploits have been reported, but the vulnerability could be leveraged for session hijacking, credential theft, or further attacks within the phpMyAdmin context. The vulnerability is tracked under CWE-79 (Improper Neutralization of Input During Web Page Generation).

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a risk primarily to confidentiality and integrity of data managed via phpMyAdmin. An attacker with valid credentials could exploit the XSS to execute arbitrary scripts in the context of an administrator’s browser session, potentially stealing session cookies, performing unauthorized actions, or delivering further payloads. This could lead to unauthorized data access or manipulation within the database management environment. Although availability is not directly impacted, the compromise of administrative sessions can have cascading effects on data security and operational integrity. Organizations with externally accessible phpMyAdmin interfaces or weak access controls are at higher risk. The impact is heightened in sectors with sensitive data such as finance, healthcare, government, and critical infrastructure. The lack of known exploits reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the threat, especially in targeted attacks.

The primary mitigation is to upgrade phpMyAdmin installations to version 4.9.11, 5.2.1, or later, where this vulnerability is patched. Organizations should audit their phpMyAdmin versions and apply updates promptly. Additionally, restrict phpMyAdmin access to trusted networks and users using network segmentation, VPNs, or IP whitelisting to reduce exposure. Implement strong authentication mechanisms, including multi-factor authentication, to limit the risk from compromised credentials. Disable or restrict the drag-and-drop SQL import feature if possible, or monitor usage closely. Employ Content Security Policy (CSP) headers to mitigate the impact of potential XSS attacks. Regularly review logs for suspicious activity related to file uploads or session anomalies. Educate administrators about the risks of uploading untrusted SQL files and encourage secure operational practices.