CVE-2001-0307 in Java HTTP Server
Summary
by MITRE
Bajie HTTP JServer 0.78, and other versions before 0.80, allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary commands via shell metacharacters in an HTTP request for a CGI program that does not exist.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/07/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2001-0307 affects Bajie HTTP JServer version 0.78 and earlier versions prior to 0.80, representing a critical security flaw in web server software that enables remote code execution through improper input validation. This vulnerability specifically targets the server's handling of HTTP requests for non-existent CGI programs, creating a pathway for malicious actors to inject and execute arbitrary commands on the affected system. The flaw stems from inadequate sanitization of user-supplied input within HTTP request parameters, particularly when processing requests directed toward CGI scripts that do not exist within the server's configuration.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the server's processing of HTTP requests containing shell metacharacters that are passed directly to the operating system without proper validation or escaping. When a remote attacker sends a malformed HTTP request containing special shell characters such as semicolons, ampersands, or backticks, the server interprets these characters as command separators or operators rather than literal input. This misinterpretation occurs because the server fails to properly sanitize or escape the input before executing any command processing, allowing attackers to chain multiple commands or inject malicious payloads that execute with the privileges of the web server process.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents a severe risk to system integrity and confidentiality as it enables complete remote code execution without requiring authentication or prior access to the system. Attackers can leverage this flaw to gain unauthorized access to the underlying operating system, potentially escalating privileges to execute arbitrary commands, modify system files, install malware, or establish persistent backdoors. The impact extends beyond immediate exploitation as the vulnerability can be used to compromise the entire server infrastructure, potentially affecting other systems connected to the same network or serving as a foothold for further lateral movement within the organization's attack surface.
The vulnerability aligns with CWE-78, which specifically addresses "Improper Neutralization of Special Elements used in OS Command Injection," and represents a classic command injection attack vector that has been consistently documented across various web application security frameworks. From an ATT&CK perspective, this vulnerability maps to T1059.001 for Command and Scripting Interpreter and T1078.004 for Valid Accounts, as it allows attackers to execute commands with existing system privileges while potentially leveraging legitimate user accounts or processes. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that the vulnerability can be exploited through standard HTTP traffic without requiring specialized tools or privileged access, making it an attractive target for automated exploitation tools and widespread attack campaigns.
Organizations should immediately implement mitigations including updating to Bajie HTTP JServer version 0.80 or later, which contains proper input validation and sanitization mechanisms. Additional defensive measures should include implementing web application firewalls to filter suspicious HTTP requests, configuring proper input validation at the application level, and restricting access to CGI directories through proper access controls. Network segmentation and monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual command execution patterns, while regular security assessments should verify that no unauthorized modifications have occurred to the server configuration. System administrators should also consider implementing principle of least privilege access controls and regularly audit system logs for evidence of exploitation attempts or successful breaches.