CVE-2001-0439 in licq
Summary
by MITRE
licq before 1.0.3 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary commands via shell metacharacters in a URL.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/01/2019
The vulnerability described in CVE-2001-0439 affects licq versions prior to 1.0.3, representing a critical security flaw that enables remote command execution through maliciously crafted URLs. This issue stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization within the instant messaging client's handling of web links, creating a pathway for attackers to inject and execute arbitrary shell commands on affected systems. The vulnerability specifically targets the software's interpretation of URL parameters without proper sanitization, allowing malicious actors to leverage shell metacharacters for unauthorized system access.
This vulnerability operates through a classic command injection attack vector where licq fails to properly escape or validate user-supplied URL data before processing it within a shell context. When users receive or click on malicious URLs containing shell metacharacters such as semicolons, ampersands, or backticks, the application passes this unfiltered input directly to system commands, enabling arbitrary code execution. The flaw exists in the application's URL handling mechanism, where it attempts to open web links through system calls without implementing proper input sanitization or command escaping procedures. This type of vulnerability aligns with CWE-78, which specifically addresses improper neutralization of special elements used in OS commands, and represents a fundamental weakness in input validation and output encoding practices.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and far-reaching, as it allows remote attackers to execute commands with the privileges of the user running licq. This could lead to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, privilege escalation, or the installation of backdoors on affected systems. Attackers could potentially gain access to sensitive information stored in the user's environment, manipulate system configurations, or establish persistent access through the execution of malicious payloads. The vulnerability affects users who are actively using licq and receive malicious URLs through various communication channels, making it particularly dangerous in environments where users frequently interact with external communications or receive files from untrusted sources. The remote nature of the attack means that exploitation does not require local system access, making it especially concerning for networked environments.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability primarily involve upgrading to licq version 1.0.3 or later, which includes proper input validation and sanitization mechanisms to prevent command injection attacks. System administrators should implement network-based protections such as firewall rules that restrict access to potentially malicious URLs and employ web filtering solutions that can detect and block suspicious URL patterns. Additionally, users should be educated about the risks of clicking on untrusted URLs and the importance of keeping their software updated. The implementation of proper input validation frameworks and regular security audits can help prevent similar vulnerabilities in the future. Organizations should also consider implementing network monitoring solutions that can detect unusual command execution patterns and employ principle of least privilege configurations to limit the impact of successful exploitation. This vulnerability highlights the critical importance of secure coding practices and input validation in preventing remote code execution attacks.