CVE-2002-0436 in Solaris
Summary
by MITRE
sscd_suncourier.pl CGI script in the Sun Sunsolve CD pack allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary commands via shell metacharacters in the email address parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/18/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2002-0436 resides within the sscd_suncourier.pl CGI script that is part of the Sun Sunsolve CD pack, representing a critical security flaw that enables remote command execution. This issue stems from inadequate input validation within the email address parameter handling mechanism, where the script fails to properly sanitize user-provided data before incorporating it into system commands. The vulnerability manifests when an attacker crafts malicious input containing shell metacharacters that are then interpreted by the underlying shell, allowing arbitrary command execution on the affected system. This type of vulnerability falls under the category of command injection attacks and is classified as CWE-78, which specifically addresses improper neutralization of special elements used in OS commands. The attack vector is particularly dangerous as it requires no authentication and can be exploited remotely, making it a significant threat to systems running vulnerable versions of the Sun Sunsolve CD pack.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker submits a specially crafted email address parameter containing shell metacharacters such as semicolons, ampersands, or backticks that are then passed directly to the system shell without proper sanitization. The script likely constructs system commands using user input without proper escaping or filtering, creating an environment where attacker-controlled commands can be executed with the privileges of the web server process. This vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates at the operating system level, potentially allowing attackers to gain unauthorized access to system resources, execute arbitrary code, and perform actions such as reading sensitive files, modifying system configurations, or even establishing persistent access to the compromised system. The lack of input validation creates a direct pathway for attackers to bypass normal security controls and execute malicious commands as if they were legitimate system operations.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized command execution, as it can lead to complete system compromise and data breaches within organizations relying on vulnerable systems. Attackers exploiting this vulnerability can potentially escalate privileges, access sensitive information, modify system files, or use the compromised system as a launch point for further attacks within the network. The vulnerability's remote exploitability means that attackers can target affected systems from anywhere on the internet without requiring physical access or prior authentication. This makes it particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where such systems may be exposed to external networks or where multiple vulnerable systems exist within the same infrastructure. The attack can result in significant business disruption, regulatory compliance violations, and potential financial losses due to data breaches or system downtime.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2002-0436 should focus on immediate input validation and sanitization measures to prevent command injection attacks. Organizations should implement proper parameter validation that filters out or escapes special shell characters from user inputs before they are processed by system commands. The recommended approach includes using whitelisting techniques to restrict input to known safe characters and implementing proper command execution methods that avoid direct shell invocation with user-controlled parameters. Additionally, systems should be updated to remove or patch the vulnerable sscd_suncourier.pl script, and administrators should consider implementing network segmentation to limit access to potentially vulnerable systems. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for command and scripting interpreter, specifically targeting the use of shell commands for execution. Organizations should also implement comprehensive monitoring to detect suspicious command execution patterns and establish regular security audits to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities across their infrastructure. The remediation process should include thorough code review of all CGI scripts and system command invocations to prevent similar issues from occurring in other components of the system.