Description
Roundcube Webmail before 1.5.10 and 1.6.x before 1.6.11 allows remote code execution by authenticated users because the _from parameter in a URL is not validated in program/actions/settings/upload.php, leading to PHP Object Deserialization.
EPSS Score:
1%
Comprehensive Technical Analysis of EUVD-2025-16605
1. Vulnerability Assessment and Severity Evaluation
The vulnerability described in EUVD-2025-16605 affects Roundcube Webmail versions before 1.5.10 and 1.6.x before 1.6.11. The issue arises from insufficient validation of the _from parameter in a URL, which can lead to PHP Object Deserialization. This vulnerability allows remote code execution (RCE) by authenticated users.
Severity Evaluation:
- Base Score: 9.9 (Critical)
- Base Score Version: CVSS 3.1
- Base Score Vector: CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:C/C:H/I:H/A:H
The high base score indicates a critical vulnerability due to the potential for complete system compromise, including confidentiality, integrity, and availability impacts. The attack vector is network-based (AV:N), requires low complexity (AC:L), and low privileges (PR:L), with no user interaction needed (UI:N). The scope change (S:C) indicates that the vulnerability can affect components beyond the initial security scope.
2. Potential Attack Vectors and Exploitation Methods
Attack Vectors:
- Authenticated Users: The vulnerability can be exploited by authenticated users, which means any user with valid credentials can potentially exploit this flaw.
- URL Manipulation: The attack involves manipulating the
_fromparameter in a URL to inject malicious PHP objects.
Exploitation Methods:
- PHP Object Deserialization: The attacker can craft a specially designed URL that includes a serialized PHP object. When this URL is processed by the vulnerable
upload.phpscript, the malicious object is deserialized, leading to arbitrary code execution. - Remote Code Execution (RCE): Once the attacker gains the ability to execute arbitrary code, they can perform various malicious activities, such as data exfiltration, system compromise, and lateral movement within the network.
3. Affected Systems and Software Versions
Affected Versions:
- Roundcube Webmail before 1.5.10
- Roundcube Webmail 1.6.x before 1.6.11
Unaffected Versions:
- Roundcube Webmail 1.5.10 and later
- Roundcube Webmail 1.6.11 and later
4. Recommended Mitigation Strategies
Immediate Mitigation:
- Upgrade Software: Upgrade to the patched versions of Roundcube Webmail (1.5.10 or 1.6.11 and later).
- Disable Affected Functionality: If upgrading is not immediately possible, consider disabling the
upload.phpfunctionality or restricting access to it.
Long-Term Mitigation:
- Regular Patching: Implement a regular patching and update schedule for all software, including Roundcube Webmail.
- Input Validation: Ensure that all user inputs are properly validated and sanitized to prevent similar vulnerabilities.
- Access Controls: Implement strict access controls to limit the number of authenticated users who can access sensitive functionalities.
- Monitoring and Logging: Enhance monitoring and logging to detect and respond to suspicious activities quickly.
5. Impact on European Cybersecurity Landscape
The vulnerability poses a significant risk to organizations using Roundcube Webmail, particularly those in the European Union. Given the critical nature of the vulnerability, it could lead to data breaches, unauthorized access, and potential violations of data protection regulations such as GDPR. Organizations must prioritize patching and mitigation efforts to protect sensitive information and maintain compliance with regulatory requirements.
6. Technical Details for Security Professionals
Vulnerability Details:
- Vulnerable Component:
upload.phpin theprogram/actions/settings/directory. - Vulnerable Parameter:
_fromin the URL. - Exploitation Mechanism: The
_fromparameter is not properly validated, allowing for PHP Object Deserialization, which can lead to RCE.
Detection and Response:
- Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS): Configure IDS to detect and alert on suspicious activities related to the
upload.phpscript and the_fromparameter. - Log Analysis: Regularly review logs for unusual patterns or attempts to manipulate the
_fromparameter. - Incident Response: Develop an incident response plan that includes steps for isolating affected systems, containing the threat, and restoring normal operations.
References:
- Roundcube Security Updates
- GitHub Pull Request
- GitHub Releases
- GitHub Commit
- NVD Entry
- Fearsoff Research
- Openwall OSS-Security List
By addressing this vulnerability promptly and comprehensively, organizations can significantly reduce the risk of exploitation and ensure the security of their webmail systems.