CVE-2000-0697 in Solaris Answerbook2
Summary
by MITRE
The administration interface for the dwhttpd web server in Solaris AnswerBook2 allows interface users to remotely execute commands via shell metacharacters.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/19/2025
The vulnerability described in CVE-2000-0697 represents a critical remote command execution flaw within the dwhttpd web server component of Solaris AnswerBook2. This issue specifically targets the administration interface of the web server, creating a pathway for remote attackers to execute arbitrary commands on the affected system. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization within the administrative web interface, allowing malicious users to inject shell metacharacters that are subsequently interpreted and executed by the underlying operating system.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-77, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in a command. The dwhttpd administration interface fails to properly sanitize user input before processing it, enabling attackers to craft malicious payloads containing shell metacharacters such as semicolons, pipes, or other command chaining operators. When these metacharacters are processed through the vulnerable interface, they are interpreted by the system shell, allowing arbitrary command execution with the privileges of the web server process. This represents a classic command injection vulnerability that can be exploited by remote attackers without requiring authentication to the system.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and far-reaching within the context of Solaris systems running AnswerBook2. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can gain complete control over the affected system, potentially leading to data compromise, system destruction, or use as a pivot point for further attacks within a network. The remote nature of the exploit means that attackers do not need physical access to the system or local network connectivity, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous in exposed environments. The vulnerability affects systems where AnswerBook2 is installed and configured with the dwhttpd web server component, which was commonly deployed in enterprise environments for providing documentation and support services.
Security professionals should implement multiple layers of defense to mitigate this vulnerability. Immediate remediation involves applying the appropriate security patches provided by Oracle for the affected Solaris versions, which typically include input validation fixes and sanitization measures for the administration interface. Network segmentation and access control measures should be implemented to restrict access to the dwhttpd administration interface, limiting exposure to trusted networks only. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls and input validation controls at the network perimeter can provide additional protection against exploitation attempts. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1059.001 for command and scripting interpreter, representing a critical threat that requires immediate attention and remediation to prevent unauthorized access and system compromise. Organizations should also conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify other potential command injection vulnerabilities within their web applications and systems.