CVE-2020-15425 : What You Need to Know
Learn about CVE-2020-15425, a critical vulnerability in CentOS Web Panel cwp-e17.0.9.8.923 allowing remote attackers to execute arbitrary code without authentication. Find mitigation steps here.
This vulnerability allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected installations of CentOS Web Panel cwp-e17.0.9.8.923 without requiring authentication. The flaw exists within ajax_mod_security.php, allowing attackers to execute code in the context of root.
Understanding CVE-2020-15425
This CVE affects CentOS Web Panel version cwp-e17.0.9.8.923.
What is CVE-2020-15425?
CVE-2020-15425 is a critical vulnerability that enables remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on CentOS Web Panel installations without the need for authentication. The flaw lies in the improper validation of user-supplied strings in ajax_mod_security.php, leading to code execution with root privileges.
The Impact of CVE-2020-15425
The vulnerability has a CVSS base score of 9.8, indicating a critical severity level. Its impact includes:
- High confidentiality, integrity, and availability impact
- Low attack complexity and no privileges required
- Network-based attack vector with no user interaction
Technical Details of CVE-2020-15425
This section provides detailed technical information about the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability stems from the lack of proper validation of user-supplied strings before executing system calls in ajax_mod_security.php, allowing attackers to run arbitrary code as root.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: CentOS Web Panel
- Version: cwp-e17.0.9.8.923
Exploitation Mechanism
Attackers exploit the vulnerability by providing malicious input to the affected ajax_mod_security.php file, enabling them to execute unauthorized commands with elevated privileges.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting systems from CVE-2020-15425 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply security patches provided by CentOS Web Panel promptly
- Monitor and restrict network access to vulnerable components
- Implement network segmentation to contain potential attacks
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update and patch software to address known vulnerabilities
- Conduct security assessments and penetration testing to identify weaknesses
- Educate users on safe computing practices and potential threats
Patching and Updates
Ensure that the affected CentOS Web Panel version cwp-e17.0.9.8.923 is updated with the latest security patches to mitigate the vulnerability.