CVE-2000-0912 in MultiHTML
Summary
by MITRE
MultiHTML CGI script allows remote attackers to read arbitrary files and possibly execute arbitrary commands by specifying the file name to the "multi" parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/12/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2000-0912 affects MultiHTML CGI scripts that process user input through the "multi" parameter, creating a critical security flaw that enables remote attackers to perform unauthorized file operations. This issue represents a classic example of improper input validation and inadequate access controls within web applications, allowing malicious actors to exploit the script's functionality to access sensitive system resources. The vulnerability stems from the script's failure to properly sanitize or validate user-supplied input before processing it as a file path, which creates an opportunity for path traversal and arbitrary file access attacks.
The technical flaw manifests when the MultiHTML CGI script accepts the "multi" parameter without sufficient validation, allowing attackers to manipulate file paths through directory traversal sequences such as "../" or similar constructs. This weakness enables unauthorized access to files that should remain protected, including system configuration files, password databases, and other sensitive information. The vulnerability extends beyond simple file reading to potentially allow command execution, as the script may be designed to process file content in ways that can be leveraged for code injection or shell command execution. This represents a significant security risk as it can lead to complete system compromise and unauthorized access to sensitive data.
The operational impact of CVE-2000-0912 is severe and multifaceted, affecting organizations that deploy vulnerable MultiHTML CGI scripts in their web infrastructure. Attackers can exploit this vulnerability to extract confidential information from web servers, potentially gaining access to user credentials, system configurations, and other sensitive data. The ability to execute arbitrary commands through this vulnerability can result in complete system compromise, allowing attackers to establish persistent access, install malware, or conduct further reconnaissance within the network. This vulnerability directly violates security principles outlined in CWE-22, which addresses path traversal vulnerabilities, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059 for command and scripting interpreter, as it enables remote code execution capabilities.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability should implement immediate mitigations including input validation and sanitization of all user-supplied parameters, particularly those used for file path operations. The recommended approach involves implementing strict whitelisting of acceptable file paths, implementing proper access controls, and ensuring that the CGI script does not allow traversal beyond designated directories. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing web application firewalls and input validation mechanisms that can detect and block malicious path traversal attempts. Regular security audits and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other web applications and ensure that proper security controls are in place to prevent unauthorized file access and command execution. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper input validation and access control mechanisms in preventing remote exploitation of web applications and aligns with security best practices outlined in various industry standards including OWASP Top Ten and NIST cybersecurity frameworks.