CVE-2001-0899 in Network Tools
Summary
by MITRE
Network Tools 0.2 for PHP-Nuke allows remote attackers to execute commands on the server via shell metacharacters in the $hostinput variable.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/01/2025
The vulnerability described in CVE-2001-0899 represents a critical command injection flaw within the Network Tools 0.2 module for PHP-Nuke content management system. This vulnerability arises from insufficient input validation and sanitization within the $hostinput variable processing logic, creating an avenue for remote attackers to execute arbitrary commands on the affected server. The flaw exists in the network tools component that typically provides system administration utilities to users within the PHP-Nuke framework, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited through the web interface without requiring any special privileges or authentication.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the improper handling of user-supplied input in the hostinput parameter. When the Network Tools module processes this variable, it fails to adequately sanitize or escape special shell metacharacters such as semicolons, ampersands, backticks, and pipes that are commonly used in command-line interfaces. This allows attackers to inject malicious shell commands that get executed with the privileges of the web server process. The vulnerability directly maps to CWE-77 which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in operating system commands, and aligns with CWE-94 which addresses the execution of arbitrary code due to insufficient input validation. From an operational perspective, this vulnerability provides attackers with complete control over the affected server, potentially enabling them to access sensitive data, install backdoors, or use the compromised system as a pivot point for further attacks within the network infrastructure.
The impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple command execution as it fundamentally compromises the integrity and confidentiality of the entire web application environment. Attackers can leverage this flaw to perform reconnaissance activities, escalate privileges, and potentially gain access to other systems within the same network domain. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it requires no authentication and can be exploited through standard web browser interactions. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability corresponds to T1059.001 for command and scripting interpreter and T1078.004 for valid accounts, as it allows for execution of commands with the privileges of the web server process, effectively creating a persistent backdoor. The vulnerability also maps to T1566.001 for valid accounts and T1082 for system information discovery, as attackers can gather system information and establish persistent access through the executed commands.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2001-0899 should prioritize immediate patching of the Network Tools 0.2 module within PHP-Nuke installations. Organizations should implement comprehensive input validation and sanitization measures that specifically target shell metacharacters and special characters in all user-supplied inputs. The recommended approach includes implementing proper escaping mechanisms for shell commands, utilizing allowlists for acceptable input characters, and employing secure coding practices that prevent direct execution of user-provided strings as system commands. Additionally, network segmentation and firewall rules should be implemented to limit access to PHP-Nuke administrative interfaces, while regular security audits should be conducted to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities in other components of the web application stack. The implementation of web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can provide additional layers of protection against exploitation attempts. Organizations should also consider implementing principle of least privilege access controls and regular security updates to prevent similar vulnerabilities from being introduced through outdated or unpatched components.