If this is active, navigating to the phpMyAdmin URL will automatically log you in as the pre-configured user (often root ) without prompting for credentials. Setup Directory Exposure
A known vulnerability (PMASA-2017-8) exists where the restrictions against "no password" logins can be bypassed under certain conditions. This is particularly relevant for older PHP versions (like PHP 5).
Use IP whitelisting to allow access only from authorized networks.
Many setups utilize default database administrative credentials. Common combinations to test include: root : root root : (blank) pma : (blank) Authentication Modes phpmyadmin hacktricks verified
Before attempting any active exploitation, you must gather data about the target instance. Version Detection
: Inspect the HTML source code of the login page for version strings or unique asset hashes. Common Default Directories
A flaw in the page redirection and inclusion core logic allows an authenticated user to include arbitrary local files. If this is active, navigating to the phpMyAdmin
If you achieve local file read access via another vulnerability (e.g., Local File Inclusion on the host web app), prioritize reading the phpMyAdmin configuration file:
Mastering phpMyAdmin Pentesting: A "HackTricks Verified" Guide
Always test common defaults ( root / root , root /empty, admin / admin , pma / pma ). Use IP whitelisting to allow access only from
Once you have authenticated access (even as a low-privilege user), your goal is to escalate to the underlying operating system. A. SELECT INTO OUTFILE (The Classic Web Shell)
Identifying the exact version of phpMyAdmin allows you to look up specific CVEs and public exploits.