CVE-2002-1971 in Networking Utils
Summary
by MITRE
The ping utility in networking_utils.php in Sourcecraft Networking_Utils 1.0 allows remote attackers to read arbitrary files via shell metacharacters in the Domain name or IP address argument.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/31/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2002-1971 represents a critical command injection flaw within the Sourcecraft Networking_Utils 1.0 library, specifically affecting the ping utility implementation in networking_utils.php. This vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization mechanisms that fail to properly escape or filter user-supplied domain name or IP address arguments before they are passed to underlying system commands. The flaw allows remote attackers to manipulate the ping utility by injecting shell metacharacters such as semicolons, pipes, or backticks into the input fields, enabling arbitrary command execution on the affected system.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-77, known as "Command Injection," which occurs when an application incorporates user-controllable data into system commands without proper validation or sanitization. The vulnerability exists because the ping utility directly incorporates user input into shell commands without appropriate escaping or filtering mechanisms. When an attacker supplies malicious input containing shell metacharacters, these characters are interpreted by the underlying shell, potentially allowing execution of unintended commands with the privileges of the web application or system process running the ping utility.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents a severe risk to network infrastructure security as it allows remote attackers to gain unauthorized access to system resources and potentially escalate privileges. The impact extends beyond simple file reading capabilities, as successful exploitation could enable attackers to execute arbitrary commands on the target system, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The vulnerability affects any system utilizing the Sourcecraft Networking_Utils 1.0 library where the ping utility is exposed to untrusted input, making it particularly dangerous in web environments where user input is common.
The attack surface for this vulnerability is primarily through web interfaces that utilize the affected networking library, particularly in applications that provide network diagnostic functionality or allow users to specify target hosts for ping operations. Attackers can exploit this through various means including direct web interface manipulation, API calls, or through web application vulnerabilities that allow input injection. The vulnerability is classified under ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for Command and Scripting Interpreter, and T1068 for Exploitation for Privilege Escalation, highlighting its potential for both initial access and lateral movement within compromised systems.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability include immediate input validation and sanitization of all user-supplied parameters before they are processed by the ping utility. Organizations should implement proper escaping mechanisms for shell metacharacters and consider using safer alternatives that do not rely on direct shell command execution. The recommended remediation involves updating to patched versions of the Sourcecraft Networking_Utils library, implementing strict input validation frameworks, and employing proper parameterized command execution where possible. Additionally, network segmentation and access controls should be implemented to limit exposure of vulnerable components, while regular security audits should verify that similar vulnerabilities do not exist in other system components that may be susceptible to command injection attacks.