CVE-2005-1296 in include.cgi
Summary
by MITRE
include.cgi script allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary commands via shell metacharacters in the argument.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/22/2017
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2005-1296 represents a critical command injection flaw in the include.cgi script that enables remote attackers to execute arbitrary commands on the affected system. This vulnerability falls under the CWE-77 category known as "Improper Neutralization of Special Elements used in a Command ('Command Injection')", which is classified as a fundamental weakness in software design that allows attackers to inject malicious commands through input parameters. The issue specifically manifests when the script fails to properly sanitize or validate input arguments, allowing shell metacharacters to be interpreted and executed by the underlying operating system shell.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs through the manipulation of input parameters passed to the include.cgi script, where attackers can insert shell metacharacters such as semicolons, ampersands, or backticks that are then processed by the system shell. This creates an environment where malicious commands can be executed with the privileges of the web server process, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates at the command execution level rather than merely affecting data processing, making it a direct pathway to arbitrary code execution and system control. The attack vector is typically initiated through web-based interfaces where the script is accessible, allowing remote exploitation without requiring authentication or prior access to the system.
The operational impact of CVE-2005-1296 extends beyond simple command execution to encompass complete system compromise and potential data exfiltration. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to gain unauthorized access to sensitive system resources, modify or delete files, install backdoors, and establish persistent access to the compromised environment. The vulnerability's remote exploitability means that attackers can target systems from anywhere on the network, making it particularly dangerous for publicly accessible web applications. This type of vulnerability is often categorized under the MITRE ATT&CK framework as part of the "Command and Scripting Interpreter" technique, specifically targeting the execution of commands through web interfaces and CGI scripts.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2005-1296 require immediate implementation of input validation and sanitization measures to prevent shell metacharacter injection. Organizations should implement proper parameter validation that filters or escapes special characters before processing user input, and employ secure coding practices that avoid direct command execution with user-supplied data. The recommended approach includes using allowlists for acceptable input values, implementing proper shell escaping mechanisms, and ensuring that the web server operates with minimal required privileges. Additionally, regular security audits and code reviews should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other scripts and applications. System administrators should also implement network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure, while monitoring for unusual command execution patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability serves as a prime example of why defense-in-depth strategies are essential and why proper input validation should be a fundamental component of all web application development processes.