CVE-2018-20938 : Security Advisory and Response

This CVE involves a vulnerability in cPanel versions prior to 68.0.27 where ownership enforcement is not applied during specific WHM API calls.

Understanding CVE-2018-20938

This vulnerability allows unauthorized users to perform actions that should be restricted by ownership checks.

What is CVE-2018-20938?

cPanel versions before 68.0.27 do not enforce ownership during addpkgext and delpkgext WHM API calls, potentially leading to unauthorized actions.

The Impact of CVE-2018-20938

The lack of ownership enforcement can result in unauthorized users manipulating packages and extensions within cPanel, compromising system security.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-20938

This section provides more technical insights into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in cPanel versions prior to 68.0.27 allows unauthorized users to bypass ownership checks during specific WHM API calls.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected Systems: cPanel versions before 68.0.27
Affected Versions: All versions prior to 68.0.27

Exploitation Mechanism

Unauthorized users can exploit this vulnerability by making addpkgext and delpkgext WHM API calls without the necessary ownership verification.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2018-20938 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update cPanel to version 68.0.27 or newer to address the ownership enforcement issue.
Monitor system logs for any suspicious activities related to package and extension management.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement strict access controls and user permissions within cPanel to limit unauthorized actions.
Regularly review and audit API calls and system logs for any anomalies that could indicate unauthorized access.

Patching and Updates

Apply patches and updates provided by cPanel to ensure ongoing security and address any newly discovered vulnerabilities.