CVE-2005-0927 in WebAPP
Summary
by MITRE
Unknown vulnerability in subs.pl for WebAPP 0.9.9 through 0.9.9.2 has unknown impact and attack vectors, probably involving shell metacharacters or .. sequences.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/06/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2005-0927 affects the subs.pl script component of WebAPP version 0.9.9 through 0.9.9.2, representing a critical security flaw that remains partially characterized in terms of its precise impact and attack surface. This issue stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms within the subs.pl script, which is likely employed for subprocess execution or file system operations within the web application framework. The vulnerability's classification as unknown suggests that the specific nature of the flaw has not been fully documented or analyzed in available security databases, though indications point toward potential exploitation through shell metacharacters or directory traversal sequences.
The technical foundation of this vulnerability lies in the improper handling of user-supplied input that flows into shell execution contexts or file path operations. When the subs.pl script processes external input without adequate sanitization, it creates opportunities for malicious actors to inject shell metacharacters such as semicolons, pipes, or backticks that could trigger unintended command execution. Additionally, the presence of .. sequences indicates potential directory traversal vulnerabilities that could allow attackers to access restricted file system locations or manipulate application behavior through crafted input sequences. This type of vulnerability typically maps to CWE-78 which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in shell commands, and CWE-22 which covers improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation or data theft, as it represents a potential pathway for complete system compromise through command injection attacks. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability could execute arbitrary commands on the affected system with the privileges of the web application process, potentially leading to full system takeover. The attack vectors likely involve sending specially crafted input through web forms, URL parameters, or API endpoints that feed into the subs.pl script, where the malicious input gets processed without proper sanitization before being passed to shell execution functions.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability must focus on implementing robust input validation and sanitization measures across all application components that interact with shell commands or file system operations. The recommended approach includes implementing proper escape sequences for shell metacharacters, employing parameterized command execution where possible, and implementing strict input filtering to prevent directory traversal sequences from being processed. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls and input validation layers that can detect and block suspicious patterns before they reach vulnerable components. The remediation process requires immediate patching of the subs.pl script with proper input sanitization routines and comprehensive code review to identify similar patterns elsewhere in the application codebase. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for command and scripting interpreter, specifically shell scripting, and represents a critical concern for maintaining application security posture in web environments.