CVE-2018-10686 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A vulnerability has been found in Vesta Control Panel 0.9.8-20 that allows for remote PHP code execution through a reflected XSS attack.

Understanding CVE-2018-10686

This CVE identifies a security issue in Vesta Control Panel version 0.9.8-20 that enables attackers to execute remote PHP code.

What is CVE-2018-10686?

The vulnerability in Vesta Control Panel 0.9.8-20 allows attackers to exploit a reflected XSS via the $_REQUEST['path'] parameter, leading to the execution of remote PHP code.

The Impact of CVE-2018-10686

The vulnerability enables attackers to execute remote PHP code by utilizing vectors that involve a file_put_contents call in web/upload/UploadHandler.php.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-10686

This section provides more technical insights into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The issue in Vesta Control Panel 0.9.8-20 allows for Reflected XSS via $_REQUEST['path'] to the view/file/index.php URI, facilitating remote PHP code execution through vectors involving a file_put_contents call in web/upload/UploadHandler.php.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected System: Vesta Control Panel 0.9.8-20
Affected Parameter: $_REQUEST['path']

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit the vulnerability by injecting malicious code into the $_REQUEST['path'] parameter, triggering the execution of remote PHP code.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2018-10686, follow these mitigation strategies:

Immediate Steps to Take

Disable the affected URI or parameter if not essential
Implement input validation to prevent malicious input

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update Vesta Control Panel to the latest version
Conduct security audits to identify and address vulnerabilities

Patching and Updates

Apply patches provided by Vesta Control Panel to fix the vulnerability