CVE-2020-21784:phpwcms 1.9.13 is vulnerable to Code Injection via /phpwcms/setup/setup.php.

splash
Back

Description Preview

phpwcms version 1.9.13 contains a code injection vulnerability in the setup.php file located in the /phpwcms/setup/ directory. This vulnerability allows attackers to inject and execute arbitrary code on the affected system. The issue is classified as CWE-94 (Improper Control of Generation of Code), which refers to software that constructs code segments from input but does not properly neutralize special elements that could modify the intended control flow.

Overview

This vulnerability affects phpwcms version 1.9.13, a PHP-based content management system. The setup.php file does not properly validate or sanitize user input, allowing malicious users to inject code that can be executed on the server. This type of vulnerability can lead to complete system compromise, allowing attackers to execute arbitrary commands, access sensitive information, modify system files, or potentially gain full control of the affected server. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous as it exists in the setup component, which might be accessible even in production environments if not properly secured after installation.

Remediation

To remediate this vulnerability, system administrators should:

  1. Update phpwcms to a version newer than 1.9.13 if available
  2. If updates are not available, restrict access to the /phpwcms/setup/ directory using .htaccess rules or similar access control mechanisms
  3. Consider removing the setup directory entirely if it's not needed after installation
  4. Implement proper input validation and sanitization for all user inputs
  5. Use web application firewalls (WAF) to help detect and block code injection attempts
  6. Regularly audit your code for similar vulnerabilities
  7. Apply the principle of least privilege to the web server and PHP process

References

  1. CWE-94: Improper Control of Generation of Code - https://cwe.mitre.org/data/definitions/94.html
  2. CWE-96: Improper Neutralization of Directives in Statically Saved Code - https://cwe.mitre.org/data/definitions/96.html
  3. GitHub Issue Report and Technical Details - https://github.com/slackero/phpwcms/issues/286

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.

Let's talk!

background
Armis Vulnerability Intelligence Database