CVE-2002-0495 in csSearch
Summary
by MITRE
csSearch.cgi in csSearch 2.3 and earlier allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary Perl code via the savesetup command and the setup parameter, which overwrites the setup.cgi configuration file that is loaded by csSearch.cgi.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/16/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2002-0495 represents a critical remote code execution flaw within the csSearch web application version 2.3 and earlier. This vulnerability exists in the csSearch.cgi script which processes user input through the savesetup command and setup parameter. The flaw stems from improper input validation and inadequate file handling mechanisms that allow malicious actors to manipulate the application's configuration file. When an attacker submits crafted input through the setup parameter, the application overwrites the setup.cgi configuration file with attacker-controlled content, which is subsequently loaded and executed by the csSearch.cgi script.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-94, which describes "Improper Control of Generation of Code ('Code Injection')" and specifically relates to the execution of arbitrary code through manipulation of configuration files. This type of vulnerability falls under the category of code injection attacks where the attacker leverages the application's trust in user input to execute malicious Perl code. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and can be exploited remotely without requiring authentication, making it particularly dangerous for web applications that are publicly accessible.
The operational impact of CVE-2002-0495 is severe and multifaceted, potentially allowing attackers to gain complete control over the affected web server. Successful exploitation enables remote code execution, which can lead to data theft, system compromise, and further lateral movement within network environments. Attackers can use this vulnerability to install backdoors, modify existing files, create new user accounts, or even deploy additional malware. The vulnerability's remote exploitability means that attackers can target systems from anywhere on the internet, and the lack of authentication requirements makes it particularly attractive for automated attacks. Organizations running affected versions of csSearch face significant risk of unauthorized access and potential data breaches.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should include immediate patching of the csSearch application to version 2.4 or later, which addresses the configuration file overwrite issue. System administrators should implement proper input validation and sanitization measures to prevent malicious data from being processed by the application. The configuration files should be protected with appropriate file permissions to prevent unauthorized modification, and the application should be configured to validate all user input before processing. Network segmentation and firewall rules can help limit exposure, while regular security audits and monitoring should be implemented to detect potential exploitation attempts. Additionally, following the principle of least privilege and implementing web application firewalls can provide additional layers of protection against similar vulnerabilities. This vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper input validation and secure file handling in web applications, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for execution through Perl scripts and T1068 for local privilege escalation opportunities that may arise from successful exploitation.