CVE-2002-0544 in Abyss Web Server
Summary
by MITRE
Aprelium Abyss Web Server (abyssws) before 1.0.3 stores the administrative console password in plaintext in the abyss.conf file, which allows local users with access to the file to gain privileges.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/16/2025
The CVE-2002-0544 vulnerability represents a critical security flaw in the Aprelium Abyss Web Server software where administrative credentials are stored in an unencrypted format within the configuration file. This vulnerability stems from poor cryptographic practices and insecure credential storage mechanisms that violate fundamental security principles for protecting sensitive authentication data. The flaw exists in versions prior to 1.0.3, indicating that this was likely an oversight during the initial development phase where proper security controls were not implemented for credential management. The configuration file abyss.conf becomes a single point of failure for system security, as any local user who can access this file gains immediate administrative privileges without requiring additional authentication mechanisms or privilege escalation techniques.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the web server's configuration file containing plaintext passwords rather than hashed or encrypted representations. This approach directly contradicts established security practices outlined in standards such as the CWE-522 weakness category, which specifically addresses insufficiently protected credentials, and aligns with the ATT&CK technique T1566.001 for credential access through unsecured configuration files. The flaw operates at the application layer where the server fails to implement proper credential storage protocols, making it particularly dangerous in multi-user environments where local file access permissions may be inadequately controlled. When an attacker gains access to the abyss.conf file through local system compromise, privilege escalation, or misconfigured file permissions, they can immediately exploit the stored credentials to assume administrative control over the web server instance.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation to encompass complete system compromise and potential data breaches. Local users with access to the configuration file can perform any administrative function including modifying web content, changing user accounts, accessing restricted directories, and potentially establishing backdoors or persistent access mechanisms. This vulnerability significantly increases the attack surface for systems running the affected web server software, as it eliminates the need for complex exploitation techniques and reduces the attack vector to simple file access. Organizations using this software face heightened risk of insider threats, compromised systems through local access attacks, and potential lateral movement within networks where the web server serves as a gateway or target for further infiltration. The vulnerability also impacts compliance with security frameworks such as NIST SP 800-53, which requires proper credential handling and protection mechanisms for system security.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2002-0544 require immediate remediation through software updates to version 1.0.3 or later where the vulnerability has been addressed. System administrators should implement comprehensive file access controls using discretionary access control mechanisms to restrict access to the abyss.conf file, ensuring that only authorized administrative users can read the configuration. The recommended approach involves applying proper credential storage techniques including password hashing with salt, implementing secure configuration management practices, and conducting regular security audits to identify similar vulnerabilities in other applications. Additionally, organizations should establish monitoring procedures to detect unauthorized access attempts to sensitive configuration files and implement automated patch management systems to ensure timely updates. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of following secure coding practices and proper input validation as outlined in OWASP Top Ten security risks, particularly focusing on credential handling and access control implementations.