Hackers Hide Linux Backdoor in Control Web Panel Server to Execute Commands Without Logs
AI-summarised brief · reviewed before publication
Researchers at QiAnXin’s XLab discovered a backdoor embedded in the Control Web Panel (CWP) web server, a Linux hosting management tool. The malicious code, dubbed “cwpdoor,” replaces the legitimate cwpsrv binary for versions 1.15.10 and 1.24.0 and executes attacker‑supplied commands delivered via web requests that bypass access logs. Installation requires root privileges, indicating the attackers have already compromised the host. The backdoor masquerades as an update, restores file timestamps, and evades detection, showing zero hits on VirusTotal’s 63 scanners. A recent archive containing the payload was uploaded to VirusTotal from Brazil on September 30, suggesting active infections, though the exact number of compromised servers remains unknown. Researchers also noted the presence of the unrelated Ebury SSH backdoor in the same archive.
💡 Why It Matters
- · The hidden backdoor lets intruders run commands without leaving traceable logs, giving them persistent, stealthy control over compromised Linux hosting environments.