CVE-2016-10828 in cPanel
Summary
by MITRE
cPanel before 55.9999.141 allows arbitrary code execution because of an unsafe @INC path (SEC-97).
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/20/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-10828 represents a critical security flaw in cPanel versions prior to 55.9999.141 that enables arbitrary code execution through an unsafe INC path mechanism. This vulnerability falls under the category of insecure library loading or dynamic code execution, where the application fails to properly validate or sanitize the library search path used by Perl interpreters. The INC path in Perl is a critical component that determines where the interpreter looks for modules and libraries during execution, and when this path contains insecure or untrusted locations, it creates opportunities for attackers to inject malicious code.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from cPanel's failure to properly manage the Perl module search path, allowing attackers to manipulate the execution environment by placing malicious Perl modules in directories that are included in the @INC path. This unsafe path handling creates a privilege escalation scenario where unauthenticated attackers can execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the cPanel service account, typically running with elevated system permissions. The vulnerability specifically affects systems where cPanel's Perl-based components are invoked without proper path sanitization, enabling attackers to exploit the insecure loading mechanism to execute malicious payloads.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe as it provides attackers with complete control over affected cPanel installations, potentially leading to full system compromise, data exfiltration, and persistence mechanisms. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to install backdoors, steal sensitive information, or use the compromised system as a launch point for further attacks within the network infrastructure. The vulnerability affects cPanel installations that utilize Perl modules and scripts, making it particularly dangerous for web hosting environments where multiple customers share the same infrastructure. Organizations running vulnerable versions face significant risk of unauthorized access and potential data breaches.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2016-10828 require immediate patching of cPanel installations to version 55.9999.141 or later, which addresses the unsafe @INC path handling through proper input validation and path sanitization. System administrators should also implement additional security measures including restricting Perl module loading paths, implementing proper file system permissions, and monitoring for suspicious module loading activities. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-427 Uncontrolled Search Path Element, which specifically addresses insecure library loading practices, and maps to ATT&CK technique T1059.006 Command and Scripting Interpreter: Perl, highlighting the exploitation methods used to leverage such insecure path handling. Organizations should also consider implementing network segmentation, intrusion detection systems, and regular security audits to prevent exploitation of similar vulnerabilities in their infrastructure.