CVE-2002-0464 in Hosting Controller
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in Hosting Controller 1.4.1 and earlier allows remote attackers to read and modify arbitrary files and directories via a .. (dot dot) in arguments to (1) file_editor.asp, (2) folderactions.asp, or (3) editoractions.asp.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/17/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2002-0464 represents a critical directory traversal flaw within Hosting Controller version 1.4.1 and earlier systems. This security weakness fundamentally compromises the integrity and confidentiality of web applications by allowing unauthorized remote attackers to manipulate file system access through carefully crafted input parameters. The vulnerability specifically affects three key application components including file_editor.asp, folderactions.asp, and editoractions.asp which are integral to the hosting controller's file management capabilities.
This directory traversal vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization within the affected web application components. When attackers submit .. (dot dot) sequences in arguments to the targeted.asp files, the application fails to properly validate these inputs before processing file operations. The flaw enables attackers to navigate beyond the intended directory boundaries and access arbitrary files or directories on the server filesystem. This represents a classic case of improper input validation where the application does not adequately filter or sanitize user-supplied data before using it in file system operations.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple information disclosure. Remote attackers can leverage this weakness to read sensitive configuration files, database credentials, application source code, and other confidential data stored on the server. Additionally, the vulnerability permits modification of critical system files, potentially allowing attackers to escalate privileges, install backdoors, or completely compromise the hosting environment. The implications are particularly severe for hosting controllers since they typically manage multiple client accounts and their associated data, making this vulnerability a potential gateway for widespread system compromise.
From a cybersecurity perspective, this vulnerability aligns with CWE-22, which describes improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal attacks. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this as a technique for privilege escalation and defense evasion, where attackers can move laterally within compromised systems by accessing files they should not normally be able to reach. The vulnerability also demonstrates weaknesses in secure coding practices, particularly in input validation and access control mechanisms that should prevent unauthorized file system access.
Organizations should immediately implement comprehensive mitigations including applying the vendor-supplied patches and updates for Hosting Controller versions 1.4.2 and later. Network segmentation and firewall rules should be configured to restrict access to the affected ASP files and limit the attack surface. Input validation should be strengthened through proper sanitization of all user-supplied parameters before any file system operations are performed. Regular security assessments and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other web applications. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can provide additional layers of protection against exploitation attempts. The remediation process should also include comprehensive security training for developers to prevent similar coding errors in future application development cycles.