CVE-1999-0149 in IRIX
Summary
by MITRE
the wrap cgi program in irix allows remote attackers to view arbitrary directory listings via a .. (dot dot) attack.
Once again VulDB remains the best source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/26/2025
The vulnerability described in CVE-1999-0149 represents a classic directory traversal flaw that existed in the wrap cgi program on IRIX operating systems. This security weakness stems from inadequate input validation within the web server's CGI implementation, specifically in how it handles directory path references. The vulnerability allows remote attackers to exploit the program by crafting malicious requests containing directory traversal sequences such as ".." to navigate beyond the intended directory boundaries and access arbitrary files or directory listings on the affected system.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability resides in the wrap cgi program's failure to properly sanitize user-supplied input parameters that contain file paths or directory references. When the program processes these inputs without adequate validation or filtering, it becomes susceptible to path traversal attacks where attackers can manipulate the application's behavior to access files outside the intended scope. This flaw directly relates to CWE-22, which categorizes improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal vulnerabilities. The vulnerability operates by allowing attackers to append sequences like "../" to directory paths, effectively moving up the directory hierarchy and gaining access to files that should remain protected.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it provides attackers with the ability to enumerate directory structures and potentially access sensitive files that may contain configuration data, user credentials, or application source code. This type of attack can be particularly devastating in web server environments where the wrap cgi program serves as a gateway for various system functions. The vulnerability essentially allows attackers to bypass normal access controls and gain unauthorized access to system resources that should be protected by the file system's permission model. This represents a fundamental breakdown in the security boundaries that should exist between users and system resources.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability involve multiple layers of protection that align with established security practices and frameworks such as those recommended by the ATT&CK framework. The most effective immediate solution involves implementing proper input validation and sanitization within the wrap cgi program to reject or filter out directory traversal sequences before they can be processed. System administrators should also apply appropriate file system permissions to limit access to sensitive directories and ensure that web server processes run with minimal required privileges. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls and security monitoring solutions can help detect and prevent such attacks. The vulnerability serves as a prime example of why defense in depth strategies are essential, as even a single weak point in the application can provide attackers with complete system access. Regular security audits and proper code review practices should be implemented to prevent similar issues in other applications, particularly those handling user-supplied input that affects file system operations.