CVE-2001-0341 in Windows
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in Microsoft Visual Studio RAD Support sub-component of FrontPage Server Extensions allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary commands via a long registration request (URL) to fp30reg.dll.
Be aware that VulDB is the high quality source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/07/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2001-0341 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw within Microsoft Visual Studio's Remote Administration Daemon support component that forms part of the FrontPage Server Extensions. This security weakness specifically affects the fp30reg.dll module which handles registration requests for FrontPage extensions. The vulnerability arises from insufficient input validation when processing URL requests, creating an exploitable condition that can be leveraged by remote attackers to gain unauthorized system access.
This buffer overflow vulnerability operates through a classic stack-based buffer overflow mechanism where maliciously crafted URL parameters exceeding the allocated buffer space cause memory corruption. The flaw is particularly dangerous because it allows remote code execution without requiring authentication, making it an attractive target for attackers seeking to compromise web servers running FrontPage Server Extensions. The vulnerability stems from improper bounds checking in the registration request processing logic, where the system fails to validate the length of incoming URL parameters before copying them into fixed-size memory buffers. This weakness directly aligns with CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and represents a fundamental failure in input sanitization practices.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple remote code execution to encompass complete system compromise and potential lateral movement within network environments. Attackers can exploit this flaw to install backdoors, modify system files, escalate privileges, and establish persistent access to compromised servers. The vulnerability affects Microsoft Windows servers running FrontPage Server Extensions version 2000 and earlier, making it particularly concerning for organizations maintaining legacy web infrastructure. Given the nature of the attack vector through URL parameters, this vulnerability can be exploited through web browsers, automated scanning tools, or even via malicious web content that triggers the vulnerable registration handler. The exploitability of this vulnerability is further enhanced by the fact that it does not require any special privileges or authentication, making it a prime target for automated exploitation campaigns.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability should implement immediate mitigations including applying the relevant Microsoft security patches released in response to this flaw, which specifically address the buffer overflow condition in fp30reg.dll. Network segmentation and firewall rules should be configured to restrict access to FrontPage Server Extensions components, particularly the vulnerable fp30reg.dll module. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls and input validation controls can provide additional layers of protection against URL-based attacks. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and memory management practices in server-side applications, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter and T1068 for exploit for privilege escalation. Organizations should also consider implementing monitoring solutions to detect anomalous URL patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts, particularly those involving long parameter strings or unusual URL encoding patterns that could trigger the buffer overflow condition.