CVE-2016-10814 in cPanel
Summary
by MITRE
cPanel before 57.9999.54 allows demo-mode escape via show_template.stor (SEC-119).
If you want to get best quality of vulnerability data, you may have to visit VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/14/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-10814 affects cPanel versions prior to 57.9999.54 and represents a critical security flaw that enables unauthorized access to demo mode environments through a specific file manipulation technique. This vulnerability exploits a weakness in the template handling mechanism that allows attackers to escape the restricted demo environment and gain access to sensitive system resources. The issue stems from insufficient input validation and access control measures within the show_template.stor component, which is designed to display template files but fails to properly sanitize user-supplied parameters. The vulnerability specifically targets the demo mode functionality that is intended to provide limited access to system features for demonstration purposes while maintaining security boundaries.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through manipulation of the show_template.stor parameter, which allows attackers to traverse file system paths and access files that should remain restricted within the demo environment. This type of vulnerability falls under the category of path traversal attacks and demonstrates poor input sanitization practices that violate fundamental security principles. The flaw enables an attacker to bypass the intended demo mode restrictions and potentially access administrative functions, configuration files, or other sensitive data that should only be available to authorized users with proper authentication credentials. From a cybersecurity perspective, this represents a privilege escalation vulnerability that undermines the security model of the application's demo functionality.
The operational impact of CVE-2016-10814 extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it can enable attackers to gain unauthorized access to system resources that could facilitate further exploitation. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability could potentially access sensitive configuration data, user credentials, or system files that could be used to escalate privileges or conduct additional attacks against the compromised system. This vulnerability particularly affects web hosting environments where cPanel is used, as it could allow attackers to compromise multiple customer accounts or gain access to system-level administrative functions. The impact is amplified in environments where demo modes are enabled for public access or where insufficient network segmentation is implemented.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including updating to cPanel version 57.9999.54 or later, which contains the necessary patches to address the template handling vulnerability. System administrators should also review and restrict access to demo mode functionality, particularly in production environments where it is not required. Network-level protections such as firewalls and access control lists should be configured to limit access to cPanel interfaces, and regular security audits should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other applications. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-22 Path Traversal and CWE-79 Cross-Site Scripting categories, and represents a typical example of how insecure input handling can lead to privilege escalation. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this under privilege escalation techniques, specifically targeting the use of application vulnerabilities to gain elevated system access. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls and input validation controls to prevent similar vulnerabilities from being exploited in other applications within their infrastructure.