CVE-2000-0188 in EZShopper
Summary
by MITRE
EZShopper 3.0 search.cgi CGI script allows remote attackers to read arbitrary files via a .. (dot dot) attack or execute commands via shell metacharacters.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/09/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2000-0188 represents a critical directory traversal and command execution flaw within the EZShopper 3.0 web application's search.cgi CGI script. This vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization mechanisms that fail to properly filter user-supplied data before processing. The flaw exists in the application's handling of file paths and command parameters, creating an attack surface where malicious actors can manipulate the script to access unauthorized resources or execute arbitrary system commands.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits the fundamental weakness in path resolution within the CGI script. When the search.cgi component processes user input, it does not adequately validate or sanitize the input parameters that control file access or command execution. Attackers can leverage this weakness by injecting directory traversal sequences using the .. (dot dot) notation to navigate beyond the intended directory boundaries. Additionally, the script fails to properly escape or filter shell metacharacters, allowing attackers to inject and execute arbitrary commands on the underlying operating system. This dual nature of the vulnerability creates both information disclosure and remote code execution capabilities, significantly amplifying the potential impact.
The operational impact of CVE-2000-0188 extends beyond simple data theft to encompass full system compromise. An attacker exploiting this vulnerability can access sensitive files such as configuration data, user credentials, and system files that should remain protected. The command execution capability allows for complete system control, enabling attackers to install backdoors, modify system configurations, or establish persistent access. This vulnerability directly aligns with CWE-22 (Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory) and CWE-78 (Improper Neutralization of Special Elements used in OS Command) classifications, which specifically address path traversal and command injection flaws respectively. The attack vector operates through standard web-based exploitation techniques, making it particularly dangerous as it requires no specialized tools or extensive knowledge of the target system's internals.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability face significant security risks including data breaches, system compromise, and potential regulatory violations. The impact is particularly severe for web applications handling sensitive information where the vulnerability can be exploited through simple HTTP requests. Mitigation strategies must include immediate patching of the affected software, implementation of proper input validation and sanitization, and deployment of web application firewalls to detect and block malicious requests. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper security controls in web application development, particularly regarding user input handling and privilege management. Organizations should also implement comprehensive monitoring and logging to detect exploitation attempts, while following ATT&CK framework techniques for defending against command injection and path traversal attacks. The remediation process requires not only fixing the immediate code vulnerability but also establishing robust security practices to prevent similar flaws in future development cycles.