CVE-2016-10794 in cPanel
Summary
by MITRE
cPanel before 59.9999.145 allows arbitrary file-read operations because of a multipart form processing error (SEC-154).
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/21/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-10794 represents a critical security flaw in cPanel versions prior to 59.9999.145 that enables unauthorized arbitrary file read operations through a multipart form processing error. This vulnerability falls under the category of improper input validation and insecure file handling practices that can be exploited by malicious actors to access sensitive system files and data. The issue stems from how cPanel processes multipart form data, which creates an opportunity for attackers to manipulate file access parameters and retrieve files that should normally be protected from unauthorized access.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs within the multipart form processing logic where input validation fails to properly sanitize user-supplied data. When cPanel receives multipart form data containing file parameters, the system does not adequately verify or restrict the file paths that can be accessed through the upload or processing mechanisms. This allows attackers to construct malicious requests that bypass normal file access controls and read arbitrary files from the server filesystem. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates at a fundamental level of file handling within the web application, potentially enabling access to configuration files, database credentials, user data, and other sensitive information stored on the server.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability poses significant risks to organizations using affected cPanel versions as it provides attackers with the capability to extract sensitive information from compromised systems. The arbitrary file read capability can be leveraged to obtain configuration files containing database connection strings, API keys, and other credentials that could lead to further system compromise. Attackers may also access log files, user databases, and application source code that could reveal additional vulnerabilities or attack vectors. The impact extends beyond immediate data theft to potential privilege escalation, system reconnaissance, and the establishment of persistent access points within the compromised environment.
Organizations should prioritize immediate remediation by upgrading to cPanel version 59.9999.145 or later, which includes patches addressing the multipart form processing error. System administrators should also implement additional monitoring and logging controls to detect suspicious file access patterns and unauthorized data retrieval attempts. Network segmentation and access control measures can help limit the potential impact if exploitation occurs. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-22 - Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory and CWE-73 - External Control of File Name or Path, both of which are commonly exploited in file inclusion and access control bypass scenarios. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to techniques involving privilege escalation and credential access through the use of system information discovery and file and directory enumeration capabilities. Security teams should conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to ensure all cPanel installations are properly updated and monitor for any indicators of compromise that might suggest exploitation attempts.