CVE-2002-0023 in Internet Explorer
Summary
by MITRE
Internet Explorer 5.01, 5.5 and 6.0 allows remote attackers to read arbitrary files via malformed requests to the GetObject function, which bypass some of GetObject s security checks.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/16/2025
The vulnerability described in CVE-2002-0023 represents a critical security flaw in Microsoft Internet Explorer versions 5.01, 5.5, and 6.0 that specifically targets the GetObject function within the browser's scripting engine. This issue stems from improper validation of file paths and object references when processing malformed requests, creating a pathway for remote attackers to bypass security mechanisms designed to prevent unauthorized file access. The vulnerability operates at the intersection of browser security boundaries and ActiveX component handling, where the GetObject function is intended to provide access to COM objects but fails to properly validate input parameters.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits weaknesses in the browser's security model by allowing attackers to craft specially formatted requests that manipulate the GetObject function's behavior. When Internet Explorer processes these malformed requests, the function fails to properly validate the file paths or object references, enabling attackers to traverse the file system and access arbitrary files that should normally be protected by security restrictions. This flaw essentially undermines the browser's security sandbox and represents a classic case of insufficient input validation that allows privilege escalation through file system access. The vulnerability manifests when the browser attempts to resolve object references and process file paths without adequate sanitization of user-supplied data.
The operational impact of CVE-2002-0023 is significant as it enables remote code execution and information disclosure attacks that can compromise entire systems. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to access sensitive files, configuration data, and potentially system credentials stored on the victim's machine. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that Internet Explorer 5.x and 6.0 were widely deployed in enterprise environments during the early 2000s, making this vulnerability a prime target for widespread exploitation. This vulnerability directly relates to CWE-22, which describes improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, and CWE-772, which covers missing release of resource after effective lifetime, as the security checks fail to properly validate and restrict file access paths.
The exploitation of this vulnerability aligns with several tactics described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework, particularly those related to privilege escalation and credential access. Attackers can use this vulnerability to move laterally within networks by accessing system files and configuration data that would normally be protected. The technique represents a form of file system traversal that bypasses standard security controls, enabling attackers to access files in restricted directories. Security professionals should note that this vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and the dangers of insufficient security checks in browser environments. The attack vector typically involves delivering malicious web content that triggers the vulnerable GetObject function through crafted HTML or script elements.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2002-0023 require immediate action including updating to patched versions of Internet Explorer, implementing proper network segmentation, and deploying web application firewalls to filter malformed requests. Organizations should also consider disabling ActiveX controls where possible and implementing strict browser security policies that limit file system access through scripting interfaces. The vulnerability highlights the critical need for robust input validation and proper security boundary enforcement in browser implementations. Additionally, security monitoring should focus on detecting unusual file access patterns and malformed requests that may indicate exploitation attempts. Given the age of the affected software versions, the most effective long-term solution involves migrating to modern browser versions with improved security models and regular patch management processes.