CVE-2004-0734 in Webstore
Summary
by MITRE
Web_Store.cgi allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary commands via shell metacharacters in the page parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/01/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2004-0734 represents a critical command injection flaw in the Web_Store.cgi web application component. This issue resides within the handling of user-supplied input through the page parameter, which is processed without adequate sanitization or validation. The flaw enables remote attackers to execute arbitrary system commands on the affected server by embedding shell metacharacters within the parameter value. This type of vulnerability falls under the category of command injection attacks as defined by CWE-77, which specifically addresses situations where user-provided data is directly incorporated into system commands without proper filtering or escaping mechanisms. The vulnerability demonstrates a classic lack of input validation and output encoding practices that are fundamental to secure coding standards.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when the Web_Store.cgi script processes the page parameter and directly incorporates it into shell commands without proper sanitization. Attackers can leverage this weakness by crafting malicious input containing shell metacharacters such as semicolons, ampersands, or backticks that are interpreted by the underlying shell. When the script executes system commands using this unsanitized input, the attacker gains the ability to execute arbitrary commands with the privileges of the web server process. This represents a severe privilege escalation scenario where remote code execution becomes possible, potentially allowing attackers to gain full control over the affected system. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for command and scripting interpreter and T1078 for valid accounts, as it enables attackers to execute system commands and potentially escalate privileges.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple remote code execution to encompass complete system compromise and potential data breaches. Successful exploitation allows attackers to access sensitive system files, modify or delete data, install malware, and establish persistent backdoors. The vulnerability affects any system running the vulnerable Web_Store.cgi application and exposes organizations to significant security risks including unauthorized access, data exfiltration, and system availability disruption. Organizations may face regulatory compliance violations and reputational damage if such vulnerabilities remain unpatched, particularly in environments handling sensitive information. The attack surface is particularly concerning as it requires no authentication for exploitation, making it accessible to any remote attacker with knowledge of the vulnerable application's interface.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2004-0734 should focus on immediate patching of the vulnerable Web_Store.cgi script with proper input validation and sanitization mechanisms. Organizations must implement proper parameter validation that filters or escapes special shell characters before incorporating user input into system commands. The recommended approach involves implementing a whitelist-based input validation system that only accepts predetermined safe characters and values. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing the principle of least privilege by running web server processes with minimal required permissions and avoiding execution of commands with elevated privileges. Security measures should include web application firewalls that can detect and block suspicious command injection patterns, regular security assessments to identify similar vulnerabilities, and comprehensive input validation across all user-facing application components. These defensive measures align with security frameworks such as the OWASP Top Ten and NIST cybersecurity guidelines for preventing injection vulnerabilities and maintaining secure web application architectures.