CVE-2018-20904 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

cPanel before version 71.9980.37 had a vulnerability (SEC-427) that allowed attackers to bypass the restriction on the cron feature through API calls.

Understanding CVE-2018-20904

What is CVE-2018-20904?

CVE-2018-20904 is a vulnerability in cPanel versions prior to 71.9980.37 that enables attackers to circumvent the cron feature restriction using specific API calls.

The Impact of CVE-2018-20904

This vulnerability could be exploited by malicious actors to perform unauthorized actions through the API, potentially leading to further compromise of the system.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-20904

Vulnerability Description

cPanel versions before 71.9980.37 are susceptible to API calls that can bypass the cron feature restriction (SEC-427).

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: cPanel
Vendor: cPanel
Affected Version: < 71.9980.37

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by utilizing specific API calls to evade the restrictions imposed on the cron feature.

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

Upgrade cPanel to version 71.9980.37 or later to mitigate the vulnerability.
Monitor API calls and restrict access to prevent unauthorized actions.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update cPanel and other software to patch known vulnerabilities.
Implement strong access controls and monitoring mechanisms to detect and prevent unauthorized activities.
Educate users on secure API usage and best practices.
Stay informed about security advisories and updates from cPanel.
Consider implementing additional security measures such as firewalls and intrusion detection systems.

Patching and Updates

Apply patches and updates provided by cPanel promptly to address security issues and enhance system protection.