CVE-2000-0381 in DBMan
Summary
by MITRE
The Gossamer Threads DBMan db.cgi CGI script allows remote attackers to view environmental variables and setup information by referencing a non-existing database in the db parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/16/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2000-0381 affects the Gossamer Threads DBMan db.cgi CGI script, representing a classic information disclosure flaw that exposes sensitive system details to remote attackers. This vulnerability specifically manifests when the script processes a request with a non-existing database parameter, allowing unauthorized access to environmental variables and system configuration information that should remain protected. The flaw demonstrates poor input validation and error handling practices within the CGI application, creating an unintended information leakage channel that significantly compromises system security posture.
Technical exploitation of this vulnerability relies on the script's inadequate error handling mechanism when encountering invalid database references. When attackers provide a non-existent database name through the db parameter, the db.cgi script fails to properly sanitize or restrict the error response, instead revealing detailed environmental variables including system paths, configuration settings, and potentially sensitive operational information. This behavior aligns with CWE-200, which addresses information exposure through improper error handling, and represents a fundamental flaw in the application's security architecture. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and can be classified under the ATT&CK technique T1083 (File and Directory Discovery) as attackers can gather system information through the error responses.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as the leaked environmental variables and setup information provide attackers with valuable intelligence for subsequent exploitation attempts. The exposed system paths, configuration parameters, and environmental variables can significantly aid in crafting more sophisticated attacks, including potential privilege escalation or further reconnaissance activities. Attackers can leverage this information to understand the system architecture, identify potential attack vectors, and plan more targeted exploitation strategies. The vulnerability essentially provides a reconnaissance tool that reduces the effort required for attackers to gain deeper system access.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2000-0381 should focus on implementing proper input validation and error handling within the CGI script. Organizations should ensure that all error responses are sanitized and do not reveal system-specific information to unauthorized users. The recommended approach includes implementing strict parameter validation to reject invalid database references before processing, configuring the application to return generic error messages regardless of input validity, and removing or restricting access to sensitive system information through error responses. Additionally, implementing proper access controls and network segmentation can limit the potential impact of such information disclosure vulnerabilities. Regular security assessments and code reviews should be conducted to identify similar flaws in other applications, as this type of vulnerability remains prevalent in legacy systems and poorly maintained web applications.