CVE-2005-2082 in imTRSET
Summary
by MITRE
im_trbbs.cgi in imTRSET 1.02 and earlier allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary commands via shell metacharacters in the df parameter.
Once again VulDB remains the best source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/09/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2005-2082 affects the im_trbbs.cgi script within the imTRSET 1.02 software suite, representing a critical command injection flaw that enables remote attackers to execute arbitrary system commands. This vulnerability resides in the handling of user input parameters, specifically the df parameter, which is processed without proper sanitization or validation. The flaw allows malicious actors to inject shell metacharacters that are subsequently interpreted and executed by the underlying operating system, creating a severe security risk for affected systems.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper input validation and sanitization within the im_trbbs.cgi script. When the df parameter is passed to the script, it undergoes insufficient filtering to prevent the execution of shell commands. Attackers can craft malicious input containing shell metacharacters such as semicolons, ampersands, or backticks that are then interpreted by the system shell, allowing arbitrary command execution. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-77 category of Command Injection, which is classified as a high-severity weakness in the Common Weakness Enumeration catalog. The vulnerability specifically maps to CWE-77 because it allows attackers to inject commands that are executed within the context of the web application's privileges.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is substantial, as it provides attackers with complete control over the affected system. Remote command execution enables malicious actors to perform various harmful activities including but not limited to data exfiltration, system reconnaissance, privilege escalation, and persistent access establishment. The vulnerability affects systems running imTRSET 1.02 and earlier versions, making it particularly dangerous for organizations that have not updated their software components. The attack vector requires no authentication, making it especially concerning as it allows for automated exploitation across vulnerable targets. This vulnerability directly aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for Command and Scripting Interpreter, where adversaries use legitimate system tools to execute commands, and T1068 for Exploitation for Privilege Escalation, as the executed commands may leverage existing system permissions.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability must address both immediate remediation and long-term security improvements. The primary and most effective solution is to upgrade to a patched version of imTRSET that properly validates and sanitizes input parameters. Organizations should implement proper input validation techniques such as whitelisting allowed characters and using parameterized queries where applicable. Additionally, implementing proper output encoding and escaping mechanisms can prevent malicious input from being interpreted as commands. Network segmentation and firewall rules should be configured to limit access to vulnerable applications, while regular security audits and penetration testing can help identify similar vulnerabilities in other system components. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of following secure coding practices, including input validation, output encoding, and proper error handling, which are fundamental principles in preventing command injection attacks. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems to monitor for suspicious command execution patterns and provide additional layers of defense against exploitation attempts.