CVE-2017-18388 : Security Advisory and Response

cPanel before version 68.0.15 has a security vulnerability due to the lack of umask setting in Jailshell, allowing unsafe file operations (SEC-315).

Understanding CVE-2017-18388

This CVE relates to a potential security issue in cPanel versions prior to 68.0.15, where unsafe file operations can be performed due to a specific configuration oversight.

What is CVE-2017-18388?

cPanel versions before 68.0.15 are susceptible to a security flaw that arises from the absence of a umask setting in Jailshell, potentially enabling unauthorized file operations.

The Impact of CVE-2017-18388

The vulnerability could be exploited by malicious actors to manipulate files and directories, compromising the integrity and confidentiality of data stored within the affected cPanel instances.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-18388

This section provides more in-depth technical insights into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The issue stems from the failure of Jailshell to establish a umask setting, leading to the execution of unsafe file operations within cPanel environments.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: cPanel
Vendor: Not applicable
Versions Affected: All versions before 68.0.15

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can leverage the absence of proper umask configuration in Jailshell to perform unauthorized file operations, potentially compromising the security of cPanel instances.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address and prevent the exploitation of CVE-2017-18388, consider the following steps:

Immediate Steps to Take

Upgrade cPanel to version 68.0.15 or newer to mitigate the vulnerability.
Implement proper file permissions and access controls within the cPanel environment.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly monitor and audit file system activities to detect any unauthorized changes.
Educate users on secure file handling practices to prevent inadvertent security breaches.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security updates and patches released by cPanel to address known vulnerabilities and enhance system security.