CVE-2001-0997 in Listrec
Summary
by MITRE
Textor Webmasters Ltd listrec.pl CGI program allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary commands via shell metacharacters in the TEMPLATE parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/12/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2001-0997 affects the listrec.pl CGI program developed by Textor Webmasters Ltd, representing a critical command injection flaw that enables remote attackers to execute arbitrary system commands on the affected server. This vulnerability specifically manifests through the TEMPLATE parameter within the CGI script, where improper input validation allows malicious actors to inject shell metacharacters that are subsequently interpreted and executed by the underlying operating system. The flaw resides in the program's failure to properly sanitize user-supplied input before incorporating it into system command executions, creating a direct pathway for remote code execution.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-77, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in a command, and specifically relates to CWE-94, which covers improper control of generation of code. The vulnerability operates by leveraging the inherent trust placed in the TEMPLATE parameter to construct system commands, where attackers can append shell metacharacters such as semicolons, ampersands, or backticks to execute unauthorized commands. This type of vulnerability falls under the ATT&CK framework's technique T1059, specifically T1059.001 for command and scripting interpreter, as it allows adversaries to execute commands through the command-line interface. The flaw demonstrates a classic example of insufficient input validation and improper output encoding in web applications.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe, as it provides attackers with complete control over the affected system, potentially enabling them to escalate privileges, access sensitive data, install malware, or use the compromised system as a launch point for further attacks. Remote attackers can exploit this vulnerability without authentication, making it particularly dangerous as it allows for widespread compromise of systems running the vulnerable CGI program. The vulnerability affects any system where the listrec.pl script is deployed and accessible via web interface, potentially impacting email list management systems, web servers, or any application that utilizes this specific CGI component. Organizations may face data breaches, system compromise, and potential regulatory violations if this vulnerability remains unpatched.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2001-0997 require immediate implementation of input validation and sanitization measures to prevent shell metacharacter injection. The most effective approach involves implementing proper parameter validation that filters or escapes special characters before they are processed by system commands. Organizations should also consider implementing input whitelisting techniques that only accept predefined safe values for the TEMPLATE parameter. Additionally, privilege separation should be enforced to ensure that the CGI program operates with minimal necessary permissions, reducing the potential impact of successful exploitation. The implementation of web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can provide additional layers of protection by monitoring for suspicious command injection patterns. Regular security audits and code reviews should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other CGI programs, while ensuring that all systems are updated with the latest security patches from the vendor or through alternative mitigation measures.