CVE-2015-2844 in GoAdmin CE
Summary
by MITRE
The cpanel function in go_site.php in GoAutoDial GoAdmin CE before 3.3-1420434000 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary commands via the $action portion of the PATH_INFO.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/21/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-2844 resides within the GoAutoDial GoAdmin CE software version 3.3-1420434000 and earlier, specifically within the cpanel function of the go_site.php file. This represents a critical remote code execution flaw that enables attackers to inject and execute arbitrary commands on the target system through manipulation of the PATH_INFO parameter. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization mechanisms within the application's handling of user-supplied data, creating a pathway for malicious actors to bypass normal security controls and gain unauthorized access to the underlying system.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits the improper handling of the $action variable within the PATH_INFO component of web requests. When the application processes incoming requests, it fails to properly sanitize or validate the action parameter before using it in command execution contexts. This allows attackers to inject malicious payloads that get interpreted and executed by the server, effectively transforming the web application into a command execution interface. The flaw operates at the application layer and leverages the trust relationship between the web server and the application, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited without requiring authentication or privileged access.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple command execution, as it provides attackers with comprehensive control over the affected system. Successful exploitation can lead to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, privilege escalation, and potential lateral movement within network environments. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to install backdoors, modify system configurations, access sensitive data, and establish persistent access to the compromised infrastructure. The remote nature of the exploit means that attackers can target vulnerable systems from anywhere on the internet without requiring physical access or network proximity, making it particularly attractive for automated exploitation campaigns.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability should implement immediate mitigations including patching to the latest available version of GoAutoDial GoAdmin CE, which addresses the input validation issues. Network-level protections such as web application firewalls should be configured to monitor and block suspicious PATH_INFO patterns. Additionally, input validation should be strengthened at the application level to ensure all user-supplied data is properly sanitized and validated before processing. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-74, which describes improper neutralization of special elements in output used by a downstream component, and maps to ATT&CK technique T1059 for command and script injection. System administrators should also conduct thorough security assessments to identify any potential compromise indicators and implement proper monitoring to detect exploitation attempts.