CVE-2004-2776 in Goscript
Summary
by MITRE
go.cgi in GoScript 2.0 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary commands via shell metacharacters in the (1) query string or (2) artarchive parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/09/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2004-2776 affects GoScript 2.0's go.cgi component, representing a critical command injection flaw that enables remote attackers to execute arbitrary system commands on affected servers. This vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization within the web application's parameter handling mechanisms, specifically targeting the query string and artarchive parameter inputs. The flaw exists in the application's failure to properly escape or filter special shell metacharacters, creating an environment where attacker-controlled input can be interpreted and executed by the underlying operating system shell.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the web application's direct invocation of system commands without proper sanitization of user-supplied parameters. When the go.cgi script processes incoming requests, it incorporates user-provided data directly into shell command executions without adequate filtering or encoding mechanisms. This creates a classic command injection attack vector where malicious actors can append shell commands to the legitimate query parameters, effectively bypassing application-level security controls. The vulnerability impacts both the query string and artarchive parameter, expanding the attack surface and providing multiple entry points for exploitation. The flaw aligns with CWE-77 which specifically addresses improper neutralization of special elements used in command execution, and represents a fundamental failure in input validation and output encoding practices.
Operationally, this vulnerability poses severe risks to affected systems as it allows attackers to execute commands with the privileges of the web server process, potentially leading to complete system compromise. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to gain unauthorized access to system resources, escalate privileges, install backdoors, or perform data exfiltration. The remote nature of the attack means that exploitation does not require physical access to the target system, making it particularly dangerous for publicly accessible web applications. The impact extends beyond immediate command execution to include potential persistence mechanisms, lateral movement capabilities, and information gathering operations that attackers can use to further compromise the affected infrastructure.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2004-2776 should focus on immediate input validation and sanitization measures, including implementing proper parameter filtering and escaping mechanisms to prevent shell metacharacter interpretation. Organizations should deploy web application firewalls to detect and block suspicious command injection patterns, while also ensuring that the affected go.cgi script is updated or replaced with secure versions. The remediation process should include comprehensive code review to identify all input handling points that may be susceptible to similar vulnerabilities, implementing proper input validation frameworks, and establishing secure coding practices that prevent direct shell command execution with user-supplied data. Additionally, system administrators should consider implementing least privilege principles for web server processes and regularly monitor system logs for signs of exploitation attempts, aligning with attack techniques documented in the mitre ATT&CK framework under command and control categories.