CVE-2021-36425 : What You Need to Know

A directory traversal vulnerability in phpcms 1.9.25 allows remote attackers to delete arbitrary files via unfiltered $file parameter to unlink method in include/inc_act/act_ftptakeover.php file.

Understanding CVE-2021-36425

This CVE-2021-36425 is a directory traversal vulnerability found in phpcms 1.9.25, allowing attackers to delete arbitrary files.

What is CVE-2021-36425?

CVE-2021-36425 is a security vulnerability that enables remote attackers to delete files by exploiting an unfiltered $file parameter in the unlink method of the 'act_ftptakeover.php' file in phpcms 1.9.25.

The Impact of CVE-2021-36425

The impact of this vulnerability is severe as it can be exploited remotely by attackers to delete important files, leading to data loss and potential system compromise.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-36425

This section will delve into the technical aspects of CVE-2021-36425.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability lies in the improper handling of user input in the $file parameter of the unlink method, allowing attackers to traverse directories and delete files.

Affected Systems and Versions

The vulnerability affects phpcms version 1.9.25 specifically.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by sending a crafted request with a malicious $file parameter to the vulnerable 'act_ftptakeover.php' file, enabling them to delete files on the server.

Mitigation and Prevention

It is crucial to take immediate action to mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2021-36425.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update phpcms to a non-vulnerable version immediately.
Implement input validation and filtering mechanisms in the application to prevent directory traversal attacks.
Monitor file deletion activities for suspicious behavior.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly conduct security assessments and vulnerability scans on the application.
Educate developers on secure coding practices to prevent similar vulnerabilities in the future.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security updates released by phpcms and promptly apply patches to address known vulnerabilities.