CVE-2001-0461 in FOLDOC
Summary
by MITRE
template.cgi in Free On-Line Dictionary of Computing (FOLDOC) allows remote attackers to read files and execute commands via shell metacharacters in the argument to template.cgi.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/06/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2001-0461 affects the Free On-Line Dictionary of Computing (FOLDOC) system through its template.cgi component, representing a classic example of command injection and arbitrary file read vulnerabilities. This flaw exists within the web interface design of FOLDOC, which is a comprehensive online dictionary and reference tool for computing terms and concepts. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization within the template.cgi script that processes user-supplied arguments without proper escaping or filtering of shell metacharacters.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability allows remote attackers to exploit the lack of proper argument sanitization by injecting shell metacharacters directly into the template.cgi script's parameter handling. When user input containing special characters such as semicolons, ampersands, or backticks is passed to the script, these metacharacters are interpreted by the underlying shell, enabling attackers to execute arbitrary commands on the server hosting the FOLDOC service. This represents a direct violation of input validation principles and demonstrates the dangerous consequences of improper handling of user-supplied data in web applications.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure to encompass full system compromise capabilities. Attackers can leverage this flaw to read sensitive files from the server filesystem, potentially accessing configuration files, user credentials, or other confidential data. The ability to execute arbitrary commands means that attackers could gain complete control over the affected system, install backdoors, modify system files, or use the compromised server as a launch point for further attacks within the network infrastructure. This vulnerability fundamentally undermines the security posture of any system running the vulnerable FOLDOC software.
From a cybersecurity framework perspective, this vulnerability aligns with CWE-78 which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in shell commands, and CWE-22 which addresses improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory. The attack pattern corresponds to techniques documented in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under T1059.001 for Command and Scripting Interpreter and T1083 for File and Directory Discovery. Organizations should implement comprehensive input validation measures including proper escaping of shell metacharacters, use of parameterized interfaces, and strict access controls to prevent such vulnerabilities. The remediation involves updating to patched versions of FOLDOC, implementing proper input sanitization, and conducting thorough security reviews of all web application components that process external user input.