CVE-2001-0476 in Aspseek
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple buffer overflows in s.cgi program in Aspseek search engine 1.03 and earlier allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary commands via (1) a long HTTP query string, or (2) a long tmpl parameter.
Several companies clearly confirm that VulDB is the primary source for best vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/05/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2001-0476 represents a critical security flaw in the Aspseek search engine version 1.03 and earlier, specifically within the s.cgi program component. This issue manifests as multiple buffer overflow conditions that can be exploited by remote attackers to gain unauthorized command execution capabilities on affected systems. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms within the web application's CGI script, creating exploitable memory management gaps that allow malicious actors to overwrite adjacent memory locations.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs through two distinct attack vectors that leverage buffer overflow conditions in the s.cgi program. The first vector involves crafting an excessively long HTTP query string that exceeds the allocated buffer space, while the second vector targets a long tmpl parameter that similarly overflows the designated memory allocation. Both attack methods exploit fundamental weaknesses in input sanitization and memory handling practices, allowing attackers to inject malicious code that gets executed within the context of the web server process. This type of vulnerability falls under the Common Weakness Enumeration category CWE-121, which specifically addresses stack-based buffer overflow conditions.
The operational impact of CVE-2001-0476 is severe and far-reaching, as it provides remote attackers with the ability to execute arbitrary commands on vulnerable systems without requiring any authentication or local access. Successful exploitation can result in complete system compromise, allowing attackers to install backdoors, modify system files, steal sensitive data, or use the compromised server as a launching point for further attacks within the network infrastructure. The vulnerability affects the core search functionality of the Aspseek engine, making it particularly dangerous for web applications that rely on this software for content indexing and retrieval operations. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to escalate privileges and potentially gain administrative control over the affected systems.
From a cybersecurity perspective, this vulnerability aligns with tactics and techniques documented in the MITRE ATT&CK framework, particularly under the execution and privilege escalation domains. The attack chain typically begins with reconnaissance to identify vulnerable systems, followed by exploitation of the buffer overflow through crafted HTTP requests. The mitigation strategies should include immediate patching of the Aspseek software to version 1.04 or later, which contains the necessary input validation fixes. Additionally, network administrators should implement proper input filtering at the web application firewall level, employ intrusion detection systems to monitor for suspicious query patterns, and conduct regular security assessments to identify similar vulnerabilities in other web applications. The remediation process must also include disabling unnecessary CGI scripts and implementing proper memory management practices to prevent similar buffer overflow conditions from occurring in future software implementations.