CVE-2000-0726 in Mailers
Summary
by MITRE
CGIMail.exe CGI program in Stalkerlab Mailers 1.1.2 allows remote attackers to read arbitrary files by specifying the file in the $Attach$ hidden form variable.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/12/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2000-0726 represents a critical directory traversal flaw in the CGIMail.exe CGI program distributed with Stalkerlab Mailers version 1.1.2. This security weakness stems from inadequate input validation within the web application's file handling mechanisms, specifically affecting how the program processes the $Attach$ hidden form variable. The flaw allows remote attackers to bypass normal file access controls and retrieve arbitrary files from the server's filesystem, potentially exposing sensitive information including configuration files, user data, and system credentials.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through manipulation of the $Attach$ parameter within the CGI script's hidden form fields. When an attacker submits a crafted request containing a malicious path in this variable, the CGIMail.exe program fails to properly sanitize the input before attempting to attach or process the specified file. This lack of proper input validation creates a path traversal condition that enables attackers to navigate beyond the intended file access boundaries. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-22, which specifically addresses improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal attacks.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it provides attackers with the capability to access critical system resources that may contain sensitive data. Successful exploitation could lead to complete system compromise, particularly if the affected CGI program runs with elevated privileges or has access to database credentials, user authentication files, or other confidential system components. The remote nature of this attack means that adversaries can exploit the vulnerability from anywhere on the network without requiring local access or authentication to the system.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability should immediately implement multiple layers of mitigation strategies to address the risk. The primary remediation involves patching the vulnerable Stalkerlab Mailers software to the latest available version that contains proper input validation and sanitization for file handling operations. Additionally, implementing proper web application firewalls and input validation rules can help detect and block malicious path traversal attempts. Network segmentation and privilege separation should be enforced to limit the potential damage from successful exploitation, ensuring that web applications do not run with unnecessary system privileges. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1213 - Data from Information Repositories, as it enables unauthorized access to stored data through compromised web applications, while also aligning with T1083 - File and Directory Discovery as attackers may attempt to enumerate system files to identify exploitable components.