VestaCP Command Injection Scanner

VestaCP is a popular web hosting control panel used for managing websites, mail servers, and databases in a centralized platform. It is utilized by web hosting providers and server administrators to simplify server management tasks. With a user-friendly interface, it allows users to manage domain names, create and manage email accounts, and monitor server performance efficiently. VestaCP is open-source, making it accessible for small to mid-sized businesses seeking a cost-effective server management solution. It supports multiple operating systems, including Linux distributions, to provide flexibility in server environments. Additionally, it offers automated backups, firewall management, and robust security features to maintain server health and integrity.

Command Injection is a serious vulnerability where an attacker has the capability to inject and execute arbitrary commands on the host server. In VestaCP, this vulnerability presents itself in the server edit functionality, allowing unauthorized command execution. This can lead to unauthorized access to critical server data or functions if exploited. An attacker could use this vulnerability to gain system or elevated privileges, potentially controlling the entire server environment. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous when the server has sensitive data, as it could lead to data theft, server compromise, or further infiltration into connected systems. Securing against such vulnerabilities is paramount to maintaining system integrity and data confidentiality.

The vulnerability leverages a particular endpoint in VestaCP—the server edit function. By crafting a specific POST request to this endpoint, an attacker can hijack the function to execute commands. This involves manipulating request parameters such as the server configuration fields. The attacker inserts a malicious payload to the parameters, which are then processed by the server without proper validation. Noteworthy is the body of the request, where the payload can include commands aiming to manipulate or extract sensitive server files, such as '/etc/shadow'. This lack of input sanitation makes it a key attack vector for command injection exploits.

Exploiting this vulnerability can have serious repercussions, including unauthorized full control over the server. Malicious actors can manipulate server settings, extract sensitive information, alter database entries, or install backdoors for persistent access. This could disrupt web services, expose confidential client or business data, and potentially utilize the server for further attacks on networked systems. Mitigation is essential to protect the server and ensure normal operation is not compromised.

REFERENCES

• https://www.exploit-db.com/exploits/49674