CVE-2002-0185 in HTTP Server
Summary
by MITRE
mod_python version 2.7.6 and earlier allows a module indirectly imported by a published module to then be accessed via the publisher, which allows remote attackers to call possibly dangerous functions from the imported module.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/22/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2002-0185 affects mod_python versions 2.7.6 and earlier, presenting a significant security risk in web application environments that utilize this module. This issue stems from improper access control mechanisms within the mod_python framework, specifically related to how imported modules are handled during the publishing process. The flaw creates an indirect but exploitable path where malicious actors can gain access to potentially dangerous functions through the publisher component that processes module imports. The vulnerability represents a classic case of insecure object exposure where the module loading mechanism fails to properly restrict access to imported components.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits the way mod_python handles module resolution and access control during the publishing phase of web requests. When a module is published, the system may inadvertently expose imported modules that should remain isolated or restricted. This occurs because the publisher component does not adequately sanitize or validate the imported module access paths, allowing remote attackers to construct requests that traverse into the imported module namespace. The flaw essentially creates a path traversal scenario within the module loading system where attacker-controlled input can influence which modules become accessible through the published interface. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-200 category of "Information Exposure" and more specifically aligns with CWE-20 "Improper Input Validation" as the system fails to properly validate or restrict access to imported modules.
The operational impact of CVE-2002-0185 is substantial for organizations running mod_python web applications, as it provides remote attackers with potential access to dangerous functions within imported modules. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to execute arbitrary code or perform unauthorized operations that could compromise the entire web application or underlying system. The risk is particularly elevated in environments where imported modules contain system-level functions or database access routines that could be exploited for data extraction, modification, or system compromise. This vulnerability directly aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 "Command and Scripting Interpreter: Python" as it enables attackers to leverage Python modules for malicious activities. The impact extends beyond simple information disclosure to potentially full system compromise, especially when imported modules contain functions that interact with the file system, network resources, or database connections.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2002-0185 primarily focus on upgrading to mod_python version 2.7.7 or later, where the access control mechanisms have been properly implemented to prevent unauthorized module access. Organizations should also implement strict module import policies and consider using more modern web application frameworks that have better built-in security controls. Network-level restrictions can be implemented to limit access to the affected publishing endpoints, while application-level sandboxing techniques can help contain potential exploits. Additionally, regular security assessments should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in legacy systems, and comprehensive monitoring should be deployed to detect suspicious access patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper access control implementation in web application frameworks and serves as a reminder of the risks associated with legacy software components that may contain unpatched security flaws.