CVE-2001-0986 in IIS
Summary
by MITRE
SQLQHit.asp sample file in Microsoft Index Server 2.0 allows remote attackers to obtain sensitive information such as the physical path, file attributes, or portions of source code by directly calling sqlqhit.asp with a CiScope parameter set to (1) webinfo, (2) extended_fileinfo, (3) extended_webinfo, or (4) fileinfo.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/30/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2001-0986 represents a critical information disclosure flaw within Microsoft Index Server 2.0's SQLQHit.asp sample file. This vulnerability exists in the web server component that processes search queries and allows unauthorized access to system information through direct parameter manipulation. The flaw specifically manifests when the CiScope parameter is manipulated to specific values, enabling attackers to extract sensitive system data that should remain protected from remote access. The vulnerability falls under the category of information disclosure attacks where malicious actors can gather intelligence about the target system's configuration and file structure without proper authentication or authorization.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability leverages the Index Server's search functionality to expose internal system information through crafted HTTP requests. When the CiScope parameter is set to values such as webinfo, extended_fileinfo, extended_webinfo, or fileinfo, the SQLQHit.asp script processes these parameters and returns detailed system information including physical file paths, directory structures, and potentially source code fragments. This occurs because the script does not properly validate or sanitize input parameters before processing them, allowing arbitrary access to internal system details. The vulnerability is classified as a weakness in input validation and output handling, aligning with CWE-20 Improper Input Validation and CWE-215 Information Exposure Through Debugging Information.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is significant as it provides attackers with crucial reconnaissance data that can be used for subsequent attacks. The disclosure of physical paths and file attributes enables attackers to understand the system's directory structure and potentially identify other vulnerable components or files. The exposure of source code portions can reveal implementation details, logic flows, and potential additional vulnerabilities within the application. This information disclosure creates a foundation for more sophisticated attacks such as directory traversal, code injection, or privilege escalation attempts. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous in web server environments where Index Server is deployed, as it can be exploited by any remote attacker with basic knowledge of the affected system's structure.
From a cybersecurity perspective, this vulnerability aligns with multiple ATT&CK tactics including TA0007 Discovery and TA0006 Credential Access. The information disclosure enables adversaries to gather system information for reconnaissance purposes and potentially access credentials or sensitive data stored in accessible locations. The attack surface is particularly concerning for organizations running older versions of Microsoft Index Server, as these systems were commonly deployed in enterprise environments where such information disclosure could lead to broader compromise. Organizations should consider this vulnerability as part of their broader security posture assessment, particularly in legacy systems that may still be in operation. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and output sanitization in web applications, emphasizing the need for secure coding practices that prevent unauthorized access to internal system information.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability include immediate patching of Microsoft Index Server 2.0 to the latest available security updates from Microsoft. Organizations should also implement network segmentation to limit access to Index Server components and restrict direct access to vulnerable ASP scripts. Input validation controls should be implemented at the web server level to filter or reject suspicious CiScope parameter values. Additionally, regular security assessments should be conducted to identify and remediate similar information disclosure vulnerabilities in other web applications and server components. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining up-to-date security patches and implementing proper access controls to prevent unauthorized information disclosure in web server environments.