CVE-2002-0568 in Oracle9i
Summary
by MITRE
Oracle 9i Application Server stores XSQL and SOAP configuration files insecurely, which allows local users to obtain sensitive information including usernames and passwords by requesting (1) XSQLConfig.xml or (2) soapConfig.xml through a virtual directory.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/16/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2002-0568 affects Oracle 9i Application Server and represents a critical security flaw in how the system handles configuration file storage and access control. This issue stems from the insecure handling of XSQL and SOAP configuration files within the application server environment, creating an exploitable condition that allows local attackers to gain unauthorized access to sensitive authentication data.
The technical flaw manifests through the improper storage of configuration files in virtual directories that lack adequate access controls. When XSQLConfig.xml and soapConfig.xml files are placed in accessible virtual directories, they become vulnerable to unauthorized retrieval by local users who can simply request these files through standard web protocols. These configuration files contain critical authentication information including usernames and passwords, making them highly valuable targets for attackers seeking to escalate their privileges or gain unauthorized access to the underlying systems.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as the exposed credentials can be leveraged for further attacks within the network infrastructure. Local users who can access these configuration files can potentially use the extracted authentication information to impersonate legitimate users, access restricted resources, or establish persistent access points within the Oracle 9i Application Server environment. This vulnerability particularly affects organizations that rely on Oracle 9i Application Server for enterprise web services and application deployment, as the exposure of authentication credentials can lead to complete system compromise.
The vulnerability aligns with CWE-200, which describes improper information disclosure, and represents a classic example of insecure configuration management within enterprise application servers. From an ATT&CK perspective, this flaw maps to T1566, specifically the technique of credential access through the exploitation of insecure configurations, and T1078, covering legitimate credentials usage. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including restricting access to virtual directories containing configuration files, implementing proper file permissions, and ensuring that sensitive information is not stored in easily accessible locations within the web server hierarchy.
Mitigation strategies should focus on implementing strict access controls for virtual directories, removing or securing configuration files that contain authentication information, and applying proper file system permissions to prevent unauthorized access. System administrators should also consider implementing additional logging and monitoring to detect unauthorized access attempts to sensitive configuration files. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper security configuration management and demonstrates how seemingly minor configuration oversights can lead to significant security breaches in enterprise application environments.