CVE-2001-1114 in NC Book
Summary
by MITRE
book.cgi in NetCode NC Book 0.2b allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary commands via shell metacharacters in the "current" parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/29/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2001-1114 resides within the book.cgi script of NetCode NC Book version 0.2b, 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 "current" parameter of the book.cgi script, which fails to properly sanitize user input before processing. The absence of input validation and output encoding creates an exploitable condition where malicious actors can inject shell metacharacters that get interpreted and executed by the underlying operating system. The vulnerability stems from improper handling of user-supplied data within a web application context, making it a classic example of a command injection attack vector that can lead to complete system compromise.
From a technical perspective, this vulnerability operates under CWE-78, which specifically addresses Improper Neutralization of Special Elements used in OS Commands, and aligns with the broader category of CWE-94, which encompasses Improper Control of Generation of Code. The flaw occurs when the application directly incorporates user input into system command execution without proper sanitization or parameterization, allowing attackers to manipulate the command execution flow through crafted input sequences. The "current" parameter in book.cgi serves as the attack surface where shell metacharacters such as semicolons, pipes, and backticks can be injected to extend or modify the intended command execution, potentially enabling attackers to perform unauthorized operations including file access, system enumeration, and privilege escalation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple data theft, as it provides attackers with the capability to execute arbitrary commands with the privileges of the web server process. This can result in complete system compromise, data exfiltration, and potential lateral movement within the network infrastructure. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to establish persistent access, install backdoors, modify system configurations, or even use the compromised system as a launch point for attacking other networked systems. The remote nature of the attack means that exploitation can occur from anywhere on the internet without requiring physical access or prior authentication, making it particularly dangerous for publicly accessible web applications. The vulnerability also represents a significant risk to the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the affected system, potentially leading to service disruption and unauthorized access to sensitive information.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2001-1114 should focus on immediate input validation and sanitization of all user-supplied parameters within the book.cgi script. The most effective approach involves implementing proper parameterization and escaping of shell commands, ensuring that user input cannot be interpreted as command syntax. Organizations should consider implementing web application firewalls that can detect and block suspicious command injection patterns, while also applying the principle of least privilege to limit the capabilities of the web server process. Additionally, the affected NetCode NC Book 0.2b software should be immediately updated or replaced with a patched version, as this vulnerability has been widely known and documented for over two decades. Regular security assessments and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other web applications, while implementing proper logging and monitoring mechanisms to detect potential exploitation attempts. The remediation process should also include comprehensive security training for developers to prevent similar issues in future application development cycles, emphasizing the importance of input validation and secure coding practices.