CVE-2017-18411:Improper Input Validation in cPanel's Addon Domain Conversion Feature (CVE-2017-18411)

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Description Preview

The addon domain conversion feature in cPanel prior to version 67.9999.103 contains a vulnerability (CWE-20: Improper Input Validation) that can result in all MySQL databases being unintentionally copied to a new account during the conversion process. This issue, tracked as SEC-285 internally by cPanel, could potentially lead to unauthorized access to database content.

Overview

This vulnerability affects the addon domain conversion functionality in cPanel, a popular web hosting control panel. When converting an addon domain to a new account, the system fails to properly validate which databases should be transferred, resulting in all MySQL databases being copied to the new account instead of only those associated with the specific addon domain. This could lead to information disclosure, as database content intended to remain with the original account becomes accessible to the owner of the new account. The vulnerability is particularly concerning in shared hosting environments where multiple customers' data could be exposed.

Remediation

To address this vulnerability, administrators should:

  1. Update cPanel to version 67.9999.103 or later as soon as possible
  2. Review any addon domain conversions performed with vulnerable versions to identify potential data exposure
  3. Consider changing database credentials for any databases that may have been unintentionally copied
  4. Implement access controls to restrict database access where appropriate
  5. Monitor for any unusual database access patterns that might indicate exploitation

For environments where immediate updates are not possible, consider temporarily disabling the addon domain conversion feature until the update can be applied.

References

  1. cPanel Technical Security Release: https://news.cpanel.com/cpanel-tsr-2017-0005-full-disclosure/
  2. cPanel version 68 Change Log: https://documentation.cpanel.net/display/CL/68+Change+Log
  3. CWE-20 (Improper Input Validation): https://cwe.mitre.org/data/definitions/20.html

Industry ExposureMost to least
This section illustrates the prevalence of a specific Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) across various industries based on customer reports. The ranking displays industries from the most to least affected by this particular vulnerability, offering valuable insight into where this CVE has been most frequently observed. This information can help organizations within these sectors prioritize their security efforts, understand their relative risk exposure compared to their peers, and focus remediation strategies where they are most needed. By understanding the industry-specific impact, organizations can make more informed decisions regarding patching, resource allocation, and overall risk management related to this CVE.

  1. Accommodation & Food Services
    Accommodation & Food Services
  2. Administrative, Support, Waste Management & Remediation Services
    Administrative, Support, Waste Management & Remediation Services
  3. Agriculture, Forestry Fishing & Hunting
    Agriculture, Forestry Fishing & Hunting
  4. Arts, Entertainment & Recreation
    Arts, Entertainment & Recreation
  5. Construction
    Construction
  6. Educational Services
    Educational Services
  7. Finance and Insurance
    Finance and Insurance
  8. Health Care & Social Assistance
    Health Care & Social Assistance
  9. Information
    Information
  10. Management of Companies & Enterprises
    Management of Companies & Enterprises
  11. Manufacturing
    Manufacturing
  12. Mining
    Mining
  13. Other Services (except Public Administration)
    Other Services (except Public Administration)
  14. Professional, Scientific, & Technical Services
    Professional, Scientific, & Technical Services
  15. Public Administration
    Public Administration
  16. Real Estate Rental & Leasing
    Real Estate Rental & Leasing
  17. Retail Trade
    Retail Trade
  18. Transportation & Warehousing
    Transportation & Warehousing
  19. Utilities
    Utilities
  20. Wholesale Trade
    Wholesale Trade

Focus on What Matters

  1. See Everything.
  2. Identify True Risk.
  3. Proactively Mitigate Threats.

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