External risk intelligence

Roundcube Webmail Remote Code Execution Vulnerability

CVE advisoryKnown Exploit

CVE-2025-49113

Roundcube Webmail has a vulnerability allowing authenticated users to execute remote code due to unvalidated URL parameters. This can impact systems and data by enabling attackers to run arbitrary code. The business risk is significant, potentially leading to data compromise and service disruption.

5Halo Surface Signal

Deserialization

Roundcube Webmail

before 1.5.101.6.0 to before 1.6.1111.0

External exposure likelihood

Halo Surface Signal score for CVE-2025-49113

Roundcube is a webmail application designed to be public-facing to provide remote access to email services. As a web-based email portal, it is expected to be accessible from the internet by design to enable users to check their mail remotely.

Horizon Alert

Summary of the vulnerability and why it matters

Roundcube Webmail contains a vulnerability that allows authenticated users to execute remote code. This occurs because a parameter within a URL is not properly validated, potentially leading to PHP Object Deserialization.

  • Vulnerable component: Roundcube Webmail
  • Core weakness: Unvalidated URL parameter
  • Main business impact: Remote code execution

Attack Path

How an attacker could exploit the issue

An attacker can leverage a vulnerability in Roundcube Webmail to execute arbitrary code on a system. This occurs when an authenticated user manipulates a URL parameter, leading to the deserialization of untrusted data. This action can compromise the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of affected systems and data.

  • Exposure condition: A Roundcube Webmail instance is accessible.
  • Attacker starting point: Authenticated user.
  • Trigger and result: Malicious URL parameter leads to code execution.

Live Threat

Current exploitation, exposure, and threat context

This vulnerability impacts organizations using Roundcube Webmail. Attackers with authenticated access could potentially execute arbitrary code on affected systems. This could lead to a compromise of sensitive data, disruption of services, and further lateral movement within the organization's network. The high severity and CVSS score indicate a significant risk, suggesting it should be treated with urgency.

  • Likely attacker skill level: Low
  • Required access or conditions: Authenticated user
  • Business risk or urgency: High

Priority actions

Operational Fix

Recommended remediation, mitigation, and detection steps

An organization should address the identified vulnerability in its Roundcube Webmail instances to mitigate the risk of remote code execution by authenticated users. The vulnerability stems from a failure to validate a parameter in a specific script, potentially allowing for PHP Object Deserialization. Addressing this requires a structured approach to identify affected systems, contain the exposure, implement vendor-provided solutions, and confirm their effectiveness.

  • Find all Roundcube instances.
  • Isolate or restrict access.
  • Apply vendor fix and validate.
  • Monitor for related activity.

Frequently asked questions

What is Roundcube Webmail and its primary function?

Roundcube Webmail is an open-source, browser-based email client that enables users to access and manage their email accounts directly through a web interface, facilitating convenient remote email access.

What is CVE-2025-49113 and what is the root weakness?

CVE-2025-49113 is a critical vulnerability in Roundcube Webmail. It is categorized as PHP Object Deserialization (CWE-502) due to the improper validation of a URL parameter, which can be exploited for code execution.

How can an authenticated user exploit the Roundcube Webmail vulnerability?

An attacker with authenticated access can trigger this vulnerability by manipulating a URL parameter in the settings/upload.php script. This manipulation bypasses validation, leading to the deserialization of untrusted data and potential remote code execution.

What is the relevance of CVE-2025-49113 according to Halo Surface Signal?

Halo Surface Signal identifies CVE-2025-49113 as a 'Very likely' threat due to Roundcube Webmail's nature as a public-facing, web-based email portal designed for remote user access, making it an accessible target.

What are the recommended steps to address the Roundcube Webmail vulnerability?

To mitigate this risk, organizations should identify all Roundcube instances, restrict access where possible, promptly apply vendor-provided security updates (versions 1.5.10 and 1.6.11, or later), and verify the successful implementation of these fixes.

References