CVE-2000-0192 in Openlinux
Summary
by MITRE
The default installation of Caldera OpenLinux 2.3 includes the CGI program rpm_query, which allows remote attackers to determine what packages are installed on the system.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/18/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2000-0192 represents a significant information disclosure issue within the default configuration of Caldera OpenLinux 2.3 operating system. This flaw exists in the form of a CGI program named rpm_query that is installed by default, creating an unintended attack surface that exposes system inventory information to remote adversaries. The vulnerability stems from the insecure default configuration practices that were common in early linux distributions, where security considerations were often secondary to ease of deployment and usability. This particular flaw demonstrates how default installations can introduce security risks that persist until explicitly addressed by system administrators, highlighting the critical importance of secure configuration management in enterprise environments.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the rpm_query CGI program which operates as a web-based interface for querying the system's rpm package database. When accessed remotely, this program returns detailed information about installed packages without requiring authentication or access controls. The flaw operates at the application layer of the network stack, specifically within the web server's CGI execution environment where it processes user requests and returns system information. This represents a classic case of insufficient access control and information exposure, where sensitive system metadata becomes publicly accessible through web interfaces. The vulnerability directly maps to CWE-200, which describes information exposure through web applications, and demonstrates how default installations can create attack vectors that are not immediately apparent to administrators.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it provides attackers with valuable reconnaissance data that can inform subsequent attack phases. By discovering installed packages, attackers can identify potential vulnerabilities within specific software versions, determine system configurations, and plan targeted exploitation strategies. The information obtained through this vulnerability includes package names, versions, and installation status, which collectively paint a comprehensive picture of the target system's software landscape. This reconnaissance capability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068, which covers local privilege escalation and system reconnaissance activities. The vulnerability enables adversaries to perform automated enumeration of system components, making it particularly dangerous in environments where multiple systems are exposed to the internet without proper network segmentation.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2000-0192 require immediate administrative action to address the insecure default configuration. The primary remediation involves removing or disabling the rpm_query CGI program from the web server's execution environment, as the program should not be accessible to unauthenticated users. System administrators must also implement proper access controls and authentication mechanisms for any package management interfaces that are necessary for legitimate administrative purposes. Network segmentation and firewall rules should be configured to restrict access to web-based package management tools to trusted administrative networks only. This vulnerability underscores the importance of regular security audits and configuration reviews, as well as the necessity of following security best practices such as the principle of least privilege and defense in depth. Organizations should also implement continuous monitoring for unauthorized access to system information and establish procedures for promptly addressing default configuration vulnerabilities that may be present in deployed systems.