CVE-2002-0686 in Web Server
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in the search component for iPlanet Web Server (iWS) 4.1 and Sun ONE Web Server 6.0 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a long argument to the NS-rel-doc-name parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/25/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2002-0686 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw within the search functionality of iPlanet Web Server version 4.1 and Sun ONE Web Server 6.0. This issue stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms that fail to properly handle excessively long parameter values passed to the NS-rel-doc-name parameter. The flaw exists in the web server's search component where it processes user-supplied input without sufficient bounds checking, creating a pathway for malicious actors to exploit the system through remote code execution. The vulnerability is particularly concerning as it affects widely deployed web server software from the early 2000s era when security practices were less mature than today's standards.
The technical implementation of this buffer overflow occurs when the web server processes a specially crafted HTTP request containing an overly long argument for the NS-rel-doc-name parameter. The search component allocates a fixed-size buffer to store this parameter value but does not validate the length of incoming data against the allocated buffer space. When the input exceeds the predetermined buffer boundaries, it causes adjacent memory locations to be overwritten, potentially corrupting critical program execution structures including return addresses and function pointers. This memory corruption can be leveraged by attackers to redirect program execution flow and inject malicious code into the server's memory space. The vulnerability falls under the CWE-121 buffer overflow category, specifically classified as a stack-based buffer overflow that can be exploited through improper input handling mechanisms.
The operational impact of CVE-2002-0686 extends beyond simple denial of service conditions to enable full system compromise through remote code execution. Attackers can craft malicious requests that, when processed by the vulnerable web server, allow them to execute arbitrary commands with the privileges of the web server process. This typically translates to complete system control, data exfiltration, and potential lateral movement within network environments. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where these older web server versions may still be operational, as they often run with elevated privileges and may serve as entry points for broader network infiltration. The attack vector is straightforward requiring only a web browser or HTTP client to send the malicious request, making it accessible to attackers with minimal technical expertise.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2002-0686 should prioritize immediate patching of affected systems with vendor-provided security updates that implement proper input validation and buffer size checking mechanisms. Organizations should also implement network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure of vulnerable web servers to untrusted networks. The implementation of web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can help detect and block malicious requests targeting this specific vulnerability. Security teams should conduct comprehensive inventory audits to identify all instances of iPlanet Web Server 4.1 and Sun ONE Web Server 6.0 within their environments, as these older versions are likely to contain additional unpatched vulnerabilities. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of maintaining up-to-date security patches and implementing robust input validation practices, aligning with ATT&CK techniques that emphasize initial access through exploitation of known vulnerabilities and privilege escalation through code execution. Organizations should also consider migrating away from deprecated web server software versions that no longer receive security updates and support from vendors.