CVE-2001-0291 in post-query
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in post-query sample CGI program allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary commands via an HTTP POST request that contains at least 10001 parameters.
VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/08/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2001-0291 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw within a post-query sample cgi program that enables remote code execution through crafted http post requests. This vulnerability resides in the handling of parameter parsing within web server cgi scripts, specifically affecting the processing of http post data where the application fails to properly validate or limit the number of parameters submitted. The flaw manifests when an attacker sends an http post request containing at least 10001 parameters, triggering a buffer overflow condition that can be exploited to execute arbitrary commands on the affected system. The vulnerability demonstrates characteristics consistent with cwe-121 buffer overflow, where insufficient bounds checking allows data to overflow into adjacent memory regions, potentially corrupting program execution flow.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits the fundamental weakness in parameter parsing mechanisms within cgi applications where the program assumes a reasonable limit on the number of parameters that can be submitted in a single http post request. When the parameter count exceeds the allocated buffer space, the overflow occurs in memory regions adjacent to the parameter storage area, potentially overwriting return addresses, function pointers, or other critical program state information. This type of vulnerability falls under the broader category of cwe-77 and cwe-122 attack vectors, where improper input validation leads to memory corruption and arbitrary code execution. The specific trigger condition of 10001 parameters indicates that the buffer allocation is insufficient to handle legitimate parameter volumes, creating an exploitable gap in the application's input handling logic.
The operational impact of CVE-2001-0291 extends beyond simple denial of service scenarios, as remote attackers can leverage this vulnerability to achieve complete system compromise. Successful exploitation allows attackers to execute arbitrary commands with the privileges of the web server process, potentially leading to full system takeover, data exfiltration, or persistent backdoor installation. The vulnerability affects web server environments that utilize cgi scripts for processing http post requests, particularly those running on unix-like systems where cgi applications are commonly deployed. This type of attack vector aligns with attack techniques documented in the attack pattern taxonomy under cwe-77 and cwe-122, where attackers manipulate input parameters to achieve code execution. The vulnerability's exploitation requires minimal sophistication and can be automated, making it particularly dangerous in environments where web applications are not properly secured or patched.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2001-0291 should focus on implementing proper input validation and bounds checking mechanisms within cgi applications. System administrators should ensure that web server configurations limit the number of parameters that can be processed in a single http post request, while also applying appropriate buffer size limits to prevent overflow conditions. The implementation of proper input sanitization and parameter validation should be enforced at multiple levels including web server configuration, application code, and potentially through intrusion detection systems that monitor for unusual parameter counts. Organizations should also implement regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning to identify similar buffer overflow conditions in other cgi applications. The remediation process should include code reviews to ensure proper memory management and input validation practices are followed, aligning with security standards and best practices established in industry frameworks such as those referenced in the cwe and attack pattern databases.