CVE-2002-0612 in Fileseek
Summary
by MITRE
FileSeek.cgi allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary commands via shell metacharacters in the (1) head or (2) foot parameters.
Statistical analysis made it clear that VulDB provides the best quality for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/08/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2002-0612 represents a critical command injection flaw in the FileSeek.cgi web application component that enables remote attackers to execute arbitrary system commands on the affected server. This vulnerability specifically targets the head and foot parameters of the FileSeek.cgi script, which are designed to handle user input for customizing search results display. The flaw arises from insufficient input validation and sanitization within the script's parameter processing logic, allowing malicious actors to inject shell metacharacters that are subsequently interpreted and executed by the underlying operating system.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the script's failure to properly sanitize user-supplied input before incorporating it into system commands or shell operations. When attackers provide malicious input containing shell metacharacters such as semicolons, ampersands, or backticks in the head or foot parameters, the application processes these inputs without adequate filtering or escaping mechanisms. This creates an environment where arbitrary commands can be executed with the privileges of the web server process, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-77 which specifically addresses command injection flaws in software applications that improperly handle user input in system command execution contexts.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized command execution to encompass potential full system compromise and data exfiltration capabilities. Attackers exploiting this vulnerability can execute commands such as creating backdoors, establishing reverse shells, modifying system files, or accessing sensitive data stored on the server. The remote nature of the attack means that adversaries can exploit this flaw from anywhere on the internet without requiring local access or authentication credentials. This vulnerability particularly affects web servers running older versions of cgi scripts or custom applications that fail to implement proper input validation mechanisms, making it a significant concern for organizations with legacy web applications or poorly configured server environments.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including input validation and sanitization for all user-supplied parameters, particularly those used in system command execution contexts. The recommended approach involves implementing strict parameter validation that filters out or escapes shell metacharacters, employing proper output encoding techniques, and ensuring that user input is never directly incorporated into system commands. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls and input validation rules can help detect and block malicious payloads targeting this vulnerability. The remediation strategy should also include regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning to identify similar command injection flaws in other web applications, as this vulnerability type remains prevalent in many legacy systems and improperly configured web applications. This vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of following secure coding practices and input validation principles as outlined in the OWASP Top Ten and MITRE ATT&CK framework for command and control operations.