CVE-2001-0076 in Ikonboard
Summary
by MITRE
register.cgi in Ikonboard 2.1.7b and earlier allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary commands via the SEND_MAIL parameter, which overwrites an internal program variable that references a program to be executed.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/09/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2001-0076 represents a critical command injection flaw in Ikonboard versions 2.1.7b and earlier. This vulnerability exists within the register.cgi script which is part of the Ikonboard web-based bulletin board system. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization mechanisms that fail to properly handle user-supplied data passed through the SEND_MAIL parameter. When an attacker submits malicious input through this parameter, the application's internal variable handling mechanism becomes compromised, allowing arbitrary code execution on the affected system. This type of vulnerability falls under the category of CWE-77 which specifically addresses command injection flaws where user-controllable data is passed directly to system execution functions without proper sanitization.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs because the register.cgi script does not properly validate or sanitize the SEND_MAIL parameter before using it to construct system commands. The internal program variable that references the executable program becomes overwritten with attacker-controlled data, enabling the execution of arbitrary commands with the privileges of the web server process. This creates a severe security risk as attackers can leverage this vulnerability to gain full control over the affected server, potentially leading to data breaches, system compromise, or further network infiltration. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it allows remote attackers to execute commands without requiring authentication, making it an attractive target for automated exploitation tools.
From an operational standpoint, the impact of this vulnerability extends beyond immediate system compromise to encompass broader security implications for web applications. The flaw demonstrates poor input validation practices and highlights the importance of implementing proper sanitization mechanisms for all user-controllable inputs. Organizations running Ikonboard versions prior to 2.1.8 are at significant risk of unauthorized access and potential data loss. The vulnerability can be exploited through simple web requests, making it accessible to attackers with basic technical skills. Security professionals should note that this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 which covers command and script injection through web applications, and T1078 which addresses valid accounts and legitimate credentials for unauthorized access.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2001-0076 primarily involve upgrading to Ikonboard version 2.1.8 or later, which contains the necessary patches to address the command injection vulnerability. System administrators should also implement network-level protections such as web application firewalls and intrusion prevention systems that can detect and block malicious requests targeting this specific vulnerability. Additionally, organizations should conduct comprehensive security assessments to identify other potentially vulnerable applications within their infrastructure. The remediation process should include disabling unnecessary web scripts and implementing proper input validation controls. Security monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual command execution patterns and unauthorized access attempts. Regular vulnerability scanning and penetration testing are essential to identify similar weaknesses in other web applications and maintain overall security posture against command injection attacks.