CVE-2016-10842 in cPanel
Summary
by MITRE
cPanel before 11.54.0.4 allows certain file-read operations in bin/setup_global_spam_filter.pl (SEC-74).
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/20/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-10842 affects cPanel versions prior to 11.54.0.4 and relates to insecure file reading operations within the bin/setup_global_spam_filter.pl script. This particular vulnerability falls under the category of insecure direct object reference and privilege escalation issues that can lead to unauthorized access to sensitive system files. The affected script is part of cPanel's spam filtering configuration process, which typically handles global spam filter settings and configurations across multiple accounts. The flaw exists in how the script processes file paths and handles user input, creating opportunities for attackers to read arbitrary files on the system through manipulation of the script's parameters.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and path traversal handling within the setup_global_spam_filter.pl script. When the script processes certain parameters related to spam filter configuration, it fails to properly sanitize or validate file paths that could be influenced by user input. This allows an attacker to manipulate the script execution flow and potentially read sensitive files such as configuration files, password hashes, or other system resources that should remain protected. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates within the context of a system administration tool that typically runs with elevated privileges, amplifying the potential impact of unauthorized file access.
Operationally, this vulnerability poses significant risks to cPanel installations as it enables attackers to bypass normal access controls and read files that contain sensitive information. The ability to read arbitrary files through this script means that attackers could potentially extract database credentials, SSH keys, configuration files containing system secrets, or other confidential data that would normally be protected by proper file permissions and access controls. The impact extends beyond simple information disclosure, as the extracted data could be used for further exploitation, including privilege escalation attacks, lateral movement within the network, or targeting other systems that share similar credentials or configurations. This vulnerability directly relates to attack patterns described in the attack tactic TA0006 (Credential Access) and technique T1078 (Valid Accounts) within the MITRE ATT&CK framework, as it enables unauthorized access to system resources that could facilitate broader compromise.
Organizations using cPanel versions prior to 11.54.0.4 should immediately apply the vendor-provided patch to address this vulnerability. The mitigation strategy involves updating to cPanel version 11.54.0.4 or later, which includes proper input validation and path sanitization measures to prevent unauthorized file access. System administrators should also implement additional monitoring of the affected script execution and review access controls for the bin/setup_global_spam_filter.pl file. Security teams should conduct comprehensive audits of their cPanel installations to ensure no other similar vulnerabilities exist in related scripts or components. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-22 (Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory) and CWE-74 (Improper Neutralization of Special Elements in Output Used by a Downstream Component) within the CWE taxonomy, highlighting the importance of proper input validation and output sanitization in preventing path traversal and file inclusion attacks. Organizations should also consider implementing network segmentation and access control measures to limit the potential impact of such vulnerabilities, particularly in environments where multiple users or applications interact with cPanel systems.