CVE-2017-16651 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

Roundcube Webmail versions prior to 1.1.10, 1.2.x prior to 1.2.7, and 1.3.x prior to 1.3.3 are vulnerable to unauthorized access to arbitrary files on the host's filesystem. Attackers can exploit this vulnerability to gain access to configuration files by using a valid username and password for authentication.

Understanding CVE-2017-16651

This CVE entry describes a security vulnerability in Roundcube Webmail that allows unauthorized access to sensitive files on the host's filesystem.

What is CVE-2017-16651?

Roundcube Webmail versions before 1.1.10, 1.2.x before 1.2.7, and 1.3.x before 1.3.3 are susceptible to a security flaw that enables attackers to access arbitrary files on the server's filesystem, including configuration files. The exploit was observed in the wild in November 2017.

The Impact of CVE-2017-16651

The vulnerability in Roundcube Webmail can have the following consequences:

Unauthorized access to sensitive files on the host's filesystem
Potential exposure of configuration files
Attackers gaining access to critical information

Technical Details of CVE-2017-16651

Roundcube Webmail CVE-2017-16651 has the following technical details:

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allows unauthorized access to arbitrary files on the host's filesystem, including configuration files, through specific requests related to file-based attachment plugins.

Affected Systems and Versions

Roundcube Webmail versions prior to 1.1.10
Roundcube Webmail 1.2.x versions prior to 1.2.7
Roundcube Webmail 1.3.x versions prior to 1.3.3

Exploitation Mechanism

To exploit this vulnerability, attackers need a valid username and password to authenticate at the target system. The attack is specifically related to file-based attachment plugins and certain requests made to the system.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2017-16651, consider the following mitigation strategies:

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Roundcube Webmail to versions 1.1.10, 1.2.7, or 1.3.3, which contain fixes for this vulnerability
Monitor system logs for any suspicious activities

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement strong password policies and multi-factor authentication
Regularly audit and review file permissions and access controls

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches and updates promptly to ensure protection against known vulnerabilities