CVE-2021-38587 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

In cPanel before version 96.0.13, the script fix-cpanel-perl mishandles the creation of temporary files, leading to a security vulnerability (SEC-586).

Understanding CVE-2021-38587

This CVE record describes a vulnerability in cPanel that could be exploited by attackers to compromise the security of the system.

What is CVE-2021-38587?

The CVE-2021-38587 vulnerability exists in cPanel versions prior to 96.0.13 due to the improper handling of temporary files by the fix-cpanel-perl script.

The Impact of CVE-2021-38587

If exploited, this vulnerability could allow an attacker to manipulate temporary files, potentially leading to unauthorized access or execution of arbitrary code on the affected system.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-38587

This section provides specific technical details related to the CVE-2021-38587 vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from the incorrect handling of temporary files by the script fix-cpanel-perl in cPanel versions before 96.0.13.

Affected Systems and Versions

All cPanel installations running versions earlier than 96.0.13 are vulnerable to CVE-2021-38587.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by manipulating the creation of temporary files using the fix-cpanel-perl script, potentially gaining unauthorized access.

Mitigation and Prevention

To mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2021-38587, the following steps should be taken:

Immediate Steps to Take

Update cPanel to version 96.0.13 or later to eliminate the vulnerability.
Regularly monitor system logs for any suspicious activity that may indicate exploitation attempts.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement strong file permission settings to restrict unauthorized access to critical directories.
Conduct regular security audits to identify and address any potential vulnerabilities in the system.

Patching and Updates

Ensure that cPanel installations are kept up to date with the latest security patches and updates to prevent exploitation of known vulnerabilities.