CVE-2002-0131 in Activepython
Summary
by MITRE
ActivePython ActiveX control for Python in the AXScript package, when used in Internet Explorer, does not prevent a script from reading files from the client s filesystem, which allows remote attackers to read arbitrary files via a malicious web page containing Python script.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/22/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2002-0131 represents a critical security flaw in the ActivePython ActiveX control implementation within the AXScript package. This issue specifically affects Internet Explorer environments where the ActiveX control is installed, creating a dangerous privilege escalation scenario that fundamentally undermines the browser's security model. The vulnerability stems from inadequate sandboxing mechanisms within the ActiveX control that fails to properly enforce security boundaries between the browser environment and the local filesystem. This flaw directly violates the core principle of web browser security where client-side resources should remain isolated from malicious web content.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits the ActiveX control's insufficient input validation and access control mechanisms. When a malicious web page loads and executes Python script through the ActiveX control, the underlying code fails to restrict file system access permissions properly. This allows attackers to craft Python scripts that can traverse the local filesystem and read arbitrary files without proper authorization. The vulnerability operates at the intersection of browser security boundaries and client-side scripting environments, creating a pathway for unauthorized data access that bypasses standard web security restrictions. This type of flaw is categorized under CWE-255 Credential Management Issues and represents a classic case of insufficient access control enforcement.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple information disclosure, as it enables comprehensive client-side reconnaissance and data exfiltration capabilities. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to access sensitive files including configuration data, user credentials, system logs, and potentially confidential business information stored locally on the compromised system. The attack vector requires no special privileges or complex exploitation techniques, making it particularly dangerous as it can be triggered through simple web browsing activities. This vulnerability directly maps to attack techniques described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under T1059.007 for Python and T1074 for data staging, where adversaries can use compromised ActiveX controls to establish persistent access to client systems. The implications for enterprise security are severe, as this vulnerability can be exploited through drive-by downloads or malicious websites that users might inadvertently visit.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2002-0131 require immediate action to address the underlying ActiveX control vulnerability. Organizations should implement strict ActiveX control policies through group policy settings or browser security configurations that either disable the ActivePython ActiveX control entirely or restrict its functionality to trusted domains only. The recommended approach involves disabling ActiveX controls in Internet Explorer or implementing strict security zones that prevent untrusted content from executing potentially dangerous code. Additionally, network-level protections such as web application firewalls and content filtering solutions can help detect and block malicious Python script execution patterns. Regular security updates and patches from ActiveState should be implemented immediately, while system administrators should conduct comprehensive audits to identify and remove any installations of the vulnerable AXScript package. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of maintaining up-to-date security controls and the inherent risks associated with legacy ActiveX technologies in modern web environments, as highlighted in various security best practices documentation and compliance frameworks such as NIST SP 800-171 and ISO 27001 standards.