CVE-2003-0398 in Content Suite
Summary
by MITRE
Vignette StoryServer 4 and 5, and Vignette V/5 and V/6, with the SSI EXEC feature enabled, allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a text variable to a Vignette Application that is later displayed.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/13/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2003-0398 affects Vignette StoryServer versions 4 and 5, as well as Vignette V/5 and V/6, specifically when the Server Side Includes (SSI) EXEC feature is enabled. This represents a critical security flaw that enables remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected systems through manipulation of text variables within Vignette applications. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization mechanisms within the SSI processing functionality, creating a pathway for malicious code injection that can be triggered during application rendering.
The technical flaw resides in the improper handling of user-supplied text variables within the SSI EXEC directive implementation. When the SSI EXEC feature is enabled, the application processes text variables that are later displayed to users, without adequate sanitization or validation of the input content. This allows attackers to inject malicious commands that are then executed within the context of the web application's execution environment. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-94, which specifically addresses "Improper Control of Generation of Code ('Code Injection')" and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for "Command and Scripting Interpreter: PowerShell" and T1059.002 for "Command and Scripting Interpreter: Windows Command Shell." The flaw essentially creates a code execution vector where attacker-controlled input flows directly into executable commands within the application's processing pipeline.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and far-reaching, as it provides attackers with complete control over the affected systems. Successful exploitation can result in unauthorized code execution, data compromise, system infiltration, and potential lateral movement within network environments. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to establish persistent backdoors, exfiltrate sensitive information, or use the compromised systems as launching points for further attacks. The remote nature of the exploit means that attackers do not require physical access or local privileges, making the vulnerability particularly dangerous for web applications that are publicly accessible. Organizations running affected Vignette versions with SSI EXEC enabled face significant risk of unauthorized access and potential system compromise, with the severity amplified by the ease of exploitation and the broad impact on application functionality.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2003-0398 should focus on immediate remediation through official vendor patches and updates. Organizations must disable the SSI EXEC feature if it is not essential for business operations, as this provides an immediate reduction of risk exposure. Input validation and sanitization mechanisms should be implemented to filter and escape all user-supplied content before processing. Network segmentation and access controls should be enforced to limit exposure of vulnerable applications to untrusted networks. Security monitoring should be enhanced to detect anomalous command execution patterns and suspicious SSI processing activities. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls and content filtering solutions can provide additional layers of protection. The vulnerability underscores the importance of proper secure coding practices and input validation, particularly when dealing with dynamic content execution features, aligning with security best practices outlined in NIST SP 800-160 and OWASP Top Ten Project guidelines for preventing code injection vulnerabilities.