# CVE-1999-0045: NCSA and Apache nph-test-cgi arbitrary file listing

Source: https://junglewise.ai/threats/cve-1999-0045-ncsa-and-apache-nph-test-cgi-arbitrary-file-listing  
Publisher: Junglewise Threat Intelligence, https://junglewise.ai/threats  
Published: 1996-12-10. Updated: 2026-05-10  
License: CC BY 4.0 with a link back

CVE-1999-0045 · Severity: high · CVSS 7.5 · Published 1996-12-10

A sample script included with early web server software allows remote attackers to view a list of files on the server. This could expose sensitive directory structures and file names to unauthorized individuals, potentially aiding in further attacks. The script was intended for testing purposes but poses a security risk if left active on a production server.

Technologies: [Apache HTTP Server](https://junglewise.ai/threats/technologies/http-server), [Ncsa HTTPd](https://junglewise.ai/threats/technologies/httpd). Vendors: [Apache](https://junglewise.ai/threats/vendors/apache), [Ncsa](https://junglewise.ai/threats/vendors/ncsa).

## Quick answers

**Is CVE-1999-0045 exploited in the wild?** No. Junglewise Threat Intelligence has no report of CVE-1999-0045 being exploited in the wild.

**How severe is CVE-1999-0045?** High severity, with a CVSS score of 7.5, published 10 December 1996.

**Which products and versions are affected?** NCSA NCSA HTTPd; Apache Apache HTTP Server.

**Is there a fix for CVE-1999-0045?** No fixed version is recorded yet. Check the vendor's advisory in the references below. If you run it, Junglewise drafts a mitigation that fits your setup and applies it once you approve, with senior security engineers behind it.

**How is CVE-1999-0045 attacked?** It is attacked over the network, in a web application.

**Am I affected by CVE-1999-0045?** Check whether you run Apache HTTP Server or Ncsa HTTPd. Junglewise does that check for you around the clock: connect your code, cloud and domains, and it matches new vulnerabilities like this one against what you actually run and tells you when one reaches you.

## Technical details

The nph-test-cgi script, often included as a default sample in early NCSA and Apache web server distributions, fails to properly sanitize input or restrict access to server internals. By sending specially crafted requests to this script, a remote, unauthenticated attacker can trigger directory listings or view information about files on the host system. This is a classic example of a dangerous default configuration where a diagnostic tool provides excessive information to the network. Remediation typically involves removing the script from the cgi-bin directory.

## Affected products

- NCSA NCSA HTTPd
- Apache Apache HTTP Server

## Timeline

- 1996-12-10: disclosed: Initial publication date in NVD

## References

- [https://exchange.xforce.ibmcloud.com/vulnerabilities/CVE-1999-0045](https://exchange.xforce.ibmcloud.com/vulnerabilities/CVE-1999-0045)

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