CVE-2016-10845 in cPanel
Summary
by MITRE
cPanel before 11.54.0.4 allows arbitrary file-overwrite operations in scripts/check_system_storable (SEC-78).
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/20/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-10845 affects cPanel versions prior to 11.54.0.4 and resides within the scripts/check_system_storable component. This flaw represents a critical security weakness that enables attackers to perform arbitrary file overwrite operations, potentially leading to system compromise and unauthorized data manipulation. The vulnerability specifically impacts the system's ability to properly validate file paths and operations within the check_system_storable script, creating an avenue for malicious actors to manipulate critical system files.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and improper file handling within the check_system_storable script. When the script processes system checks and storage operations, it fails to adequately sanitize user-supplied input or validate file paths before executing overwrite operations. This weakness allows attackers to craft malicious inputs that can cause the script to write data to unintended files or locations within the system filesystem. The flaw operates at the intersection of improper input validation and insecure file operations, making it particularly dangerous for systems that rely on cPanel for web hosting and server management functions.
The operational impact of CVE-2016-10845 extends beyond simple file manipulation, as it can enable attackers to escalate privileges, modify critical system components, or inject malicious code into the hosting environment. An attacker exploiting this vulnerability could potentially overwrite configuration files, system binaries, or user data files, leading to complete system compromise or denial of service conditions. The vulnerability's presence in a core system management script means that successful exploitation could affect multiple aspects of the hosting environment, including user accounts, website content, and underlying server configurations. This type of vulnerability aligns with CWE-22 (Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory) and CWE-772 (Missing Release of Resource after Effective Lifetime) categories, as it involves improper path handling and resource management.
The security implications of this vulnerability are particularly severe in shared hosting environments where multiple users rely on cPanel for their web hosting needs. Attackers could leverage this flaw to overwrite system files that control user access, modify web server configurations, or inject malicious code that persists across system reboots. The vulnerability also creates opportunities for attackers to establish persistent backdoors or escalate privileges within the hosting environment, making it a significant concern for system administrators managing critical infrastructure. This weakness demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and secure coding practices in system management tools, as it directly relates to ATT&CK technique T1059 (Command and Scripting Interpreter) and T1078 (Valid Accounts) by enabling attackers to manipulate system resources and potentially gain unauthorized access.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2016-10845 require immediate system updates to cPanel version 11.54.0.4 or later, which includes the necessary patches to address the file overwrite vulnerability. System administrators should also implement additional security controls such as restricting access to the affected scripts, monitoring file system changes, and conducting regular security audits of the hosting environment. Network-level controls including firewall rules and intrusion detection systems can help detect and prevent exploitation attempts. Organizations should also review and update their incident response procedures to ensure rapid detection and remediation of similar vulnerabilities. The fix addresses the root cause by implementing proper input validation and secure file handling mechanisms, preventing the arbitrary overwrite operations that previously enabled exploitation.