CVE-2016-10770 in cPanel
Summary
by MITRE
cPanel before 60.0.25 allows arbitrary file-overwrite operations during a Roundcube update (SEC-164).
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/20/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-10770 represents a critical file overwrite flaw within cPanel versions prior to 60.0.25 that specifically affects the Roundcube email client component. This vulnerability resides in the update mechanism of cPanel's web-based email interface, creating a dangerous condition where unauthorized users can manipulate file operations during the Roundcube update process. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation and improper file handling procedures that allow malicious actors to specify arbitrary file paths for overwrite operations. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-22, which specifically addresses Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for executing commands through web shells and T1566 for credential harvesting through web application attacks.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when cPanel performs automatic updates to the Roundcube email client component. During these update operations, the system fails to properly validate user-supplied file paths or verify that update operations target only intended directories. This allows attackers to manipulate the update process by specifying file paths that point to sensitive system locations outside the intended Roundcube installation directory. The flaw essentially creates a path traversal condition where legitimate update mechanisms become vectors for arbitrary file overwrite operations, potentially enabling attackers to replace critical system files with malicious payloads.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted, particularly for hosting environments that rely on cPanel for managing multiple customer accounts. An attacker who can authenticate to cPanel with limited privileges can leverage this vulnerability to overwrite system files, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The vulnerability affects not only individual user accounts but also the underlying hosting infrastructure, as the compromised Roundcube component may be used to gain access to email data, credentials, and potentially escalate privileges within the hosting environment. The attack vector typically involves exploiting weak authentication controls or social engineering to gain access to cPanel accounts, followed by the exploitation of this update vulnerability to achieve persistent access.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2016-10770 require immediate patching of cPanel installations to version 60.0.25 or later, which addresses the file overwrite vulnerability through enhanced input validation and proper path restriction mechanisms. Organizations should implement network segmentation to limit direct access to cPanel interfaces and establish robust authentication controls including multi-factor authentication for administrative access. The implementation of web application firewalls can help detect and prevent exploitation attempts targeting this specific vulnerability by monitoring for suspicious file path manipulation patterns. Additionally, regular security audits should verify that update processes properly validate file paths and that no unnecessary write permissions exist in critical system directories. System administrators should also consider implementing automated monitoring for unauthorized file changes in critical system locations and establish comprehensive backup strategies to ensure rapid recovery from potential compromise scenarios.