Source: cve@mitre.org
network_query.php in Network Query Tool 1.0 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary commands via shell metacharacters in the target parameter.
Network Query Tool 1.0 is vulnerable to remote command execution, allowing attackers to inject and execute arbitrary commands on the server. This vulnerability, stemming from improper input validation, grants attackers complete control over the compromised system, leading to potential data breaches and system compromise.
Step 1: Payload Delivery: The attacker crafts a malicious URL containing a specially crafted target parameter. This parameter includes shell metacharacters and the desired commands to be executed.
Step 2: Request Submission: The attacker sends the malicious URL to the vulnerable network_query.php script.
Step 3: Parameter Processing: The network_query.php script receives the target parameter.
Step 4: Command Construction: The script constructs a shell command using the unsanitized target parameter.
Step 5: Command Execution: The script executes the constructed shell command using a function like system(), exec(), or shell_exec(). The attacker's injected commands are then executed on the server.
Step 6: Result Retrieval (Optional): Depending on the script's design, the attacker may be able to retrieve the output of the executed commands.
The vulnerability lies within network_query.php in Network Query Tool 1.0. The script fails to properly sanitize the target parameter before passing it to a shell command. This allows attackers to inject shell metacharacters (e.g., ;, &, |, &&, ||) within the target parameter, effectively crafting a malicious command string. The script then executes this crafted string using a function like system(), exec(), or shell_exec(), leading to arbitrary command execution on the server. The root cause is a lack of input validation and output encoding of user-supplied data before it is used in a system call. This is a classic example of a command injection vulnerability.
This vulnerability is likely targeted by opportunistic attackers and could be incorporated into botnets. While no specific APTs are directly linked to this CVE, the ease of exploitation makes it a potential target for a wide range of threat actors. CISA KEV: Not Listed.
Analyze web server access logs for suspicious requests to network_query.php with unusual target parameter values containing shell metacharacters (e.g., ;, &, |, &&, ||).
Monitor network traffic for unusual outbound connections from the server, which could indicate command execution and data exfiltration.
Examine system logs for evidence of command execution, such as entries related to the execution of unexpected processes or commands.
Implement file integrity monitoring to detect changes to critical system files.
Use a Web Application Firewall (WAF) to block malicious requests containing shell metacharacters.
Upgrade to a patched version of Network Query Tool (if available). Since this is version 1.0, it's highly unlikely there are patches. The best course of action is to remove the software.
If removal is not possible, implement robust input validation to sanitize the target parameter. This includes filtering or escaping shell metacharacters.
Avoid using functions like system(), exec(), and shell_exec() in the code. If necessary, use safer alternatives or carefully sanitize inputs.
Implement a Web Application Firewall (WAF) to filter malicious requests.
Regularly scan the system for vulnerabilities.
Apply the principle of least privilege: ensure the web server process runs with minimal necessary permissions.