CVE-2003-1456 in Album.pl
Summary
by MITRE
Album.pl 6.1 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary commands, when an alternative configuration file is used, via unknown attack vectors.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/13/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2003-1456 affects Album.pl version 6.1, a web-based photo album management system that has been widely deployed in web environments. This flaw represents a critical security weakness in the application's handling of configuration files, specifically when alternative configuration files are utilized during runtime operations. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and improper sanitization of user-supplied data that can influence the application's configuration processing mechanisms. Attackers can exploit this weakness to inject and execute arbitrary commands on the affected system, potentially leading to complete system compromise and unauthorized access to sensitive data.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the application's failure to properly validate or sanitize the path or content of alternative configuration files. When Album.pl 6.1 processes these alternative configuration files, it does not adequately filter or escape special characters that could be interpreted as command sequences by the underlying operating system. This represents a classic command injection vulnerability that can be classified under CWE-78 as improper neutralization of special elements used in OS commands. The attack vectors remain unspecified in the original description, suggesting that the vulnerability may be exploitable through multiple entry points including file inclusion, parameter manipulation, or direct configuration file manipulation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple command execution, as it provides attackers with the ability to gain persistent access to the affected system. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can execute commands with the privileges of the web server process, potentially leading to data theft, system modification, or the establishment of backdoors. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous in shared hosting environments or when the web application has elevated privileges, as it can be leveraged to compromise entire server infrastructures. This weakness directly aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for command and scripting interpreter, as well as T1068 for exploit for privilege escalation.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2003-1456 require immediate implementation of multiple defensive measures to protect against exploitation attempts. Organizations should first apply the vendor-provided patches or updates that address the configuration file handling mechanism in Album.pl 6.1. Additionally, implementing proper input validation and sanitization for all user-supplied data that influences configuration file paths or content is essential. Network-level protections including firewall rules that restrict access to configuration files and web application firewalls that can detect and block suspicious command injection patterns should be deployed. System administrators should also consider implementing least privilege principles by running the web application with minimal required permissions and regularly auditing configuration file access patterns to detect potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper input validation and secure coding practices in preventing command injection attacks that can lead to complete system compromise.