CVE-2001-1130 in Linux
Summary
by MITRE
Sdbsearch.cgi in SuSE Linux 6.0-7.2 could allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary commands by uploading a keylist.txt file that contains filenames with shell metacharacters, then causing the file to be searched using a .. in the HTTP referer (from the HTTP_REFERER variable) to point to the directory that contains the keylist.txt file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/29/2025
The vulnerability described in CVE-2001-1130 represents a critical command injection flaw within the sdbsearch.cgi script of SuSE Linux versions 6.0 through 7.2. This vulnerability operates through a sophisticated attack vector that combines improper input validation with unsafe file handling mechanisms. The flaw specifically targets the sdbsearch.cgi utility which is part of the SuSE Linux distribution's web-based search functionality, making it accessible through web interfaces and potentially exploitable by remote attackers without authentication. The vulnerability falls under the category of CWE-78, which specifically addresses Improper Neutralization of Special Elements used in OS Command Execution, a fundamental weakness in software design that allows attackers to inject malicious commands into system processes.
The technical exploitation mechanism relies on the improper handling of user-supplied data within the HTTP_REFERER variable, which is a standard HTTP header field that contains the address of the previous web page from which a link to the currently requested page was followed. Attackers can upload a specially crafted keylist.txt file containing filenames with shell metacharacters such as semicolons, ampersands, or backticks that are interpreted by the shell when the file is processed. The vulnerability is further amplified by the use of directory traversal sequences using double dots .. in the HTTP_REFERER header to manipulate the search path. This combination allows attackers to specify arbitrary directories containing their malicious payload, effectively bypassing normal file access restrictions and gaining unauthorized access to the system's command execution capabilities.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted, as it provides remote attackers with the ability to execute arbitrary commands with the privileges of the web server process. This can lead to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, privilege escalation, and potential lateral movement within network environments. The vulnerability affects systems running SuSE Linux versions 6.0 through 7.2, which were widely deployed in enterprise environments during the early 2000s, making this a significant concern for organizations that had not yet updated their systems. The attack requires only basic web browser capabilities and does not require any special privileges or authentication, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited by anyone with access to the vulnerable web interface.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate patching of the affected SuSE Linux versions, as well as implementing comprehensive input validation and sanitization measures. Organizations should ensure that all user-supplied data is properly escaped and validated before being processed by any system commands or shell operations. The implementation of proper access controls and privilege separation is essential, ensuring that web server processes run with minimal required privileges. Additionally, network segmentation and firewall rules should be configured to limit access to vulnerable web interfaces, while monitoring systems should be deployed to detect anomalous patterns in HTTP_REFERER headers that might indicate exploitation attempts. This vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of secure coding practices and proper input validation, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for Command and Scripting Interpreter, which emphasizes the need to prevent command injection vulnerabilities in web applications and systems.