CVE-2002-0489

Linux Directory Penguin NsLookup CGI script (nslookup.pl) 1.0 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via shell metacharacters in the (1) query or…

published June 11, 2002

CVSS
—
EPSS
6%
Percentile
93.1
In the wild
Unconfirmed
What it is

⚠️ A remote attacker can run arbitrary code on your system just by crafting a sneaky query! This vulnerability in the Linux Directory Penguin NsLookup CGI script is a classic case of shell metacharacters slipping through unnoticed. 😱 Think of it like a chef who allows anyone in the kitchen to change the recipe without checking their credentials — a tiny adjustment could lead to a catastrophic dish! In this case, the script falls victim to mischievous inputs that could unleash chaos. An attacker could infiltrate your server, gaining the ability to execute any command they desire. This could potentially lead to data loss, system corruption, or even a full server takeover. It's a sneaky way for bad actors to wreak havoc!

Put simply

Think of it like a chef who allows anyone in the kitchen to change the recipe without checking their credentials — a tiny adjustment could lead to a catastrophic dish! In this case, the script falls victim to mischievous inputs that could unleash chaos. This vulnerability arises from improper input validation in the nslookup.pl script, allowing attackers to inject shell metacharacters through the query or type parameters, which the script then unwittingly executes on the server.

What to do

An attacker could infiltrate your server, gaining the ability to execute any command they desire. This could potentially lead to data loss, system corruption, or even a full server takeover. It's a sneaky way for bad actors to wreak havoc! To protect yourself, update to a patched version of the nslookup.pl script if available, or consider disabling its use altogether. Additionally, implement strict input validation to ensure that only expected parameters are processed. 🛡️ You've got this! With a few simple steps, you can lock things down and keep your environment safe from unwelcome intruders! 🔐

The record
Technical detail
CVSS
Not scored
CVSS v4.0
Not supplied
EPSS
0.05830 · 93.1th percentile
Published
2002-06-11T04:00Z
EPSS history
Timeline
  • 11 JUN 04:00Z
    Linux Directory Penguin NsLookup CGI script (nslookup.pl) 1.0 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via shell metacharacters in the (1) query or…
    cvelistv5