CVE-2002-0187 in SQL Server
Summary
by MITRE
Cross-site scripting vulnerability in the SQLXML component of Microsoft SQL Server 2000 allows an attacker to execute arbitrary script via the root parameter as part of an XML SQL query, aka "Script Injection via XML Tag."
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/22/2025
The vulnerability described in CVE-2002-0187 represents a critical cross-site scripting flaw within Microsoft SQL Server 2000's SQLXML component that enables remote code execution through maliciously crafted XML queries. This weakness specifically affects the handling of the root parameter within XML SQL queries, creating an environment where attacker-controlled input can be injected into the server-side processing pipeline. The vulnerability exists at the intersection of database query processing and web application security, where XML data structures are parsed and executed within the SQL Server environment. The flaw allows an attacker to inject malicious script code that gets executed in the context of a user's browser when the compromised XML data is rendered, effectively bypassing traditional web application security controls. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it leverages the legitimate XML processing capabilities of SQL Server to deliver malicious payloads that can compromise user sessions and potentially escalate privileges within the database environment.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization within the SQLXML component's processing of XML query parameters. When SQL Server processes XML queries containing the root parameter, it fails to properly escape or validate user-supplied input before incorporating it into the execution context. This creates a classic cross-site scripting scenario where the XML parser treats attacker-controlled data as executable code rather than safe data. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-79 as "Improper Neutralization of Input During Web Page Generation ('Cross-site Scripting')", which specifically addresses situations where web applications fail to properly sanitize user input before incorporating it into dynamically generated content. The attack vector operates through the XML SQL query interface where the root parameter serves as the injection point, allowing malicious payloads to be embedded in XML structures that are then processed by the SQL Server engine.
The operational impact of CVE-2002-0187 extends beyond simple script injection to potentially enable more sophisticated attacks within the database environment. An attacker could leverage this vulnerability to execute arbitrary code on the SQL Server, potentially gaining access to sensitive database information, modifying data structures, or even escalating privileges to system-level access. The vulnerability affects the integrity and confidentiality of database operations since any user with access to the SQLXML interface can potentially exploit this flaw to compromise the database server. From an attacker's perspective, this vulnerability provides a pathway to bypass traditional network security controls and directly target the database layer. The attack can be particularly devastating in enterprise environments where SQL Server 2000 instances may be running with elevated privileges and contain sensitive corporate data. The vulnerability also enables potential persistence mechanisms where attackers can establish backdoors or maintain access to the compromised database system.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2002-0187 should focus on both immediate defensive measures and long-term architectural improvements. Organizations should implement comprehensive input validation and sanitization for all XML query parameters, particularly those involving the root parameter, to prevent malicious data from being processed by the SQLXML component. Network segmentation and access controls should be enforced to limit exposure of SQL Server instances to untrusted networks and users. The implementation of proper parameterized queries and prepared statements can help prevent injection attacks by separating executable code from data input. Security patches and updates from Microsoft should be applied immediately, as this vulnerability was addressed through service packs and security updates released by Microsoft. Additionally, monitoring and logging of XML query activities can help detect anomalous patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for "Command and Scripting Interpreter: PowerShell" and T1213.002 for "Data from Databases" in the MITRE ATT&CK framework, indicating that exploitation could lead to lateral movement and data exfiltration from database environments. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls and security monitoring solutions that can detect and block malicious XML injection attempts targeting SQL Server components.