CVE-1999-1053: High severity Apache HTTP Server vulnerability
guestbook.pl cleanses user-inserted SSI commands by removing text between "<!--" and "-->" separators, which allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary commands when guestbook.pl is run on Apache 1.3.9 and possibly other versions, since Apache allows other closing sequences besides "-->".
Affected Software
Remediation
Recommended actions to resolve this vulnerability, in priority order.
- Remove
Remove
Matt Wright Guestbookfrom your environment.Uninstall or remove guestbook.pl (the Matt Wright Guestbook) if it is not required, since the script's SSI cleansing is insufficient and can allow remote command execution.
- Configuration
Disable Server Side Includes (SSI) in Apache to prevent execution of user-supplied SSI commands (stop processing of SSI directives).
Apache HTTP Server server-side-includes (SSI) = disabled - Compensating control
Restrict access to the guestbook script (guestbook.pl) to trusted IP addresses or internal networks and/or deploy a WAF rule to block SSI directive patterns to reduce exposure until the script is fixed or removed.
- Operational
Review and modify guestbook.pl to properly sanitize user input for all SSI closing sequences supported by Apache (do not rely solely on removing text between '<!--' and '-->'). Apply the fix or replace the script with a secure alternative.
Event History
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the severity of CVE-1999-1053?
CVE-1999-1053 is considered a high-severity vulnerability allowing remote attackers to execute arbitrary commands.
How do I fix CVE-1999-1053?
To fix CVE-1999-1053, upgrade to a newer version of Matt Wright Guestbook and consider updating your Apache HTTP Server to a secure version.
What software is affected by CVE-1999-1053?
CVE-1999-1053 affects Matt Wright Guestbook version 2.3 and Apache HTTP Server version 1.3.9.
Can CVE-1999-1053 be exploited remotely?
Yes, CVE-1999-1053 can be exploited remotely due to improper cleansing of user-inserted commands.
Is CVE-1999-1053 still a concern today?
While CVE-1999-1053 is an older vulnerability, it remains a concern for systems still running affected software versions.