CVE-1999-0268 is a critical vulnerability affecting the MetaInfo MetaWeb web server, an older web server product. The vulnerability allows unauthenticated remote attackers to upload, execute, and read arbitrary scripts on the server. This means an attacker can place malicious code on the server, execute it with the privileges of the web server process, and read sensitive files. The vulnerability is remotely exploitable over the network without any authentication or user interaction, making it highly dangerous. The CVSS v2 base score is 10.0, indicating maximum severity with network attack vector, low attack complexity, no authentication required, and complete compromise of confidentiality, integrity, and availability. Although the product is outdated and no patches are available, the vulnerability represents a total compromise of affected systems. Exploitation could lead to full system takeover, data theft, defacement, or use of the server as a pivot point for further attacks. No known exploits in the wild are documented, likely due to the product's obsolescence. However, any remaining deployments of MetaInfo MetaWeb remain at extreme risk.

For European organizations, the impact of this vulnerability would be severe if any still operate MetaInfo MetaWeb servers. Successful exploitation would allow attackers to fully control the web server, access sensitive corporate or customer data, and disrupt services. This could lead to data breaches violating GDPR regulations, resulting in significant fines and reputational damage. The ability to execute arbitrary scripts also enables attackers to install malware, ransomware, or create persistent backdoors, amplifying the threat. Although the product is very old and likely rare in production, legacy systems in some organizations or research environments could be vulnerable. The lack of patches means organizations cannot remediate the vulnerability except by decommissioning or isolating affected servers. Given the criticality, any exposure could have devastating operational and compliance consequences.

Since no patches are available for this vulnerability, organizations should immediately identify any MetaInfo MetaWeb servers in their environment and take them offline or isolate them from the network. Migration to modern, actively supported web server software is strongly recommended. If legacy use is unavoidable, strict network segmentation and firewall rules should be applied to limit exposure. Monitoring for unusual file uploads or script execution attempts on these servers can help detect exploitation attempts. Additionally, organizations should conduct thorough audits to ensure no sensitive data resides on vulnerable servers and implement compensating controls such as web application firewalls (WAFs) to block malicious requests. Regular vulnerability scanning and asset inventory updates are essential to prevent unknown legacy exposures.