CVE-2018-18323 in CentOS Web Panel
Summary
by MITRE • 01/25/2023
CentOS-WebPanel.com (aka CWP) CentOS Web Panel 0.9.8.480 has Local File Inclusion via directory traversal with an admin/index.php?module=file_editor&file=/../ URI.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/25/2025
CentOS Web Panel CWP version 0.9.8.480 contains a critical local file inclusion vulnerability that stems from improper input validation in the file editor module. This vulnerability exists within the admin/index.php endpoint where the file parameter accepts user-supplied input without adequate sanitization or validation. The flaw allows attackers to manipulate the file parameter through directory traversal sequences such as ../ to access arbitrary files on the server filesystem. The vulnerability specifically manifests when the application processes the module=file_editor&file=/../ URI pattern, enabling unauthorized access to sensitive system files that should remain protected from external inspection.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-22, which describes improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal attacks. This weakness allows attackers to access files and directories that are stored outside the intended directory, potentially exposing critical system information such as configuration files, database credentials, or other sensitive data. The vulnerability occurs because the application fails to properly validate or sanitize the file parameter before using it in file system operations, creating a direct path traversal condition that bypasses normal access controls.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe as it provides attackers with unauthorized access to the underlying server filesystem, potentially enabling them to extract sensitive information, modify system files, or escalate privileges. An attacker could leverage this vulnerability to access configuration files containing database passwords, SSH keys, or other critical system information that could lead to further compromise of the entire server infrastructure. The vulnerability affects the administrative interface of CWP, which typically operates with elevated privileges, making the potential damage even more significant. This weakness could enable attackers to gain persistent access to the system and potentially compromise other services running on the same host.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should include immediate patching of the CWP application to version 0.9.8.481 or later, which contains the necessary fixes for the directory traversal issue. Organizations should implement proper input validation and sanitization measures to prevent user-supplied data from being directly processed in file system operations. The application should enforce strict path validation that rejects any input containing directory traversal sequences or absolute paths. Additionally, implementing principle of least privilege access controls, regular security audits, and network segmentation can help reduce the potential impact of such vulnerabilities. Security professionals should also consider implementing web application firewalls and monitoring for suspicious URI patterns that attempt to exploit path traversal vulnerabilities, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter. Organizations should also conduct regular vulnerability assessments and penetration testing to identify and remediate similar weaknesses in their web applications and ensure compliance with security standards such as those outlined in NIST SP 800-53 and ISO 27001.