CVE-2016-10804 in cPanel
Summary
by MITRE
The SQLite journal feature in cPanel before 57.9999.54 allows arbitrary file-overwrite operations during Horde Restore (SEC-58).
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/22/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-10804 represents a critical security flaw within the cPanel platform that leverages SQLite database journaling functionality to enable unauthorized file overwrite operations. This vulnerability specifically affects cPanel versions prior to 57.9999.54 and is particularly dangerous because it operates through the Horde Restore functionality, which is commonly used for email and file restoration processes within the cPanel environment. The flaw stems from improper handling of temporary files and database journal operations that occur during the restoration process, creating an exploitable condition that allows attackers to manipulate file system operations.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the manipulation of SQLite database journal files that are created during database transactions within the Horde email system. When cPanel processes restore operations, it creates temporary journal files that are intended to maintain database consistency during transaction processing. However, the flaw occurs because these journal files are created with predictable naming patterns and are written to directories that are accessible to unprivileged users. Attackers can exploit this by creating malicious journal files that, when processed by the restore functionality, cause the system to overwrite arbitrary files on the target system with attacker-controlled content.
This vulnerability operates under the broader context of privilege escalation and arbitrary file write conditions that are classified under CWE-22 (Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory) and CWE-73 (External Control of File Name or Path). The operational impact extends beyond simple file overwrite capabilities as it can enable attackers to modify critical system files, configuration files, or even replace executable binaries with malicious versions. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it requires minimal privileges to execute and can be automated, making it attractive to threat actors seeking persistent access or system compromise.
The security implications of this vulnerability are severe as it allows attackers to potentially gain deeper system access through file system manipulation. When combined with other exploitation techniques, this vulnerability could enable attackers to establish persistent backdoors, modify authentication mechanisms, or compromise the integrity of the entire cPanel installation. The Horde Restore functionality is commonly used by system administrators and end users, making this attack surface particularly wide. The vulnerability also demonstrates poor input validation and inadequate file system access controls that are typical of systems where temporary file handling is not properly secured.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2016-10804 require immediate patching of cPanel installations to version 57.9999.54 or later, which contains the necessary fixes for proper journal file handling and temporary file management. Organizations should also implement additional security controls such as restricting write permissions to database journal directories, monitoring for unusual file creation patterns in temporary locations, and implementing proper access controls around the Horde Restore functionality. The remediation process should include comprehensive system auditing to detect any potential exploitation attempts that may have occurred prior to patching. Security teams should also consider implementing network-based intrusion detection systems that can identify suspicious file overwrite patterns and database journal file manipulation activities that may indicate exploitation attempts.