CVE-2002-0750 in csMailto
Summary
by MITRE
CGIscript.net csMailto.cgi program allows remote attackers to read arbitrary files by specifying the target filename in the form-attachment field.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/21/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2002-0750 affects the CGIscript.net csMailto.cgi program, representing a classic directory traversal attack vector that exploits improper input validation mechanisms within web applications. This flaw resides in the form-attachment field processing functionality of the mailto script, which fails to adequately sanitize user-supplied input before using it to construct file paths for attachment handling. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-22, which specifically addresses improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal attacks. Attackers can exploit this weakness by crafting malicious requests that include directory traversal sequences such as ../ or ..\ in the form-attachment parameter, enabling them to access files outside the intended directory structure and potentially read sensitive system information.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability demonstrates a fundamental lack of input validation and output encoding in the web application's file handling routines. When the csMailto.cgi script processes the form-attachment field, it directly incorporates user-supplied data into the file system operations without proper sanitization or validation checks. This allows threat actors to manipulate the script's behavior to access arbitrary files on the server, potentially including system configuration files, password databases, or other sensitive information. The attack surface is particularly concerning as it operates at the file system level, bypassing typical web application security controls and directly accessing the underlying operating system's file management capabilities. The vulnerability represents a critical security flaw that aligns with ATT&CK technique T1213.002, specifically involving data from other sources, where attackers can extract sensitive information through direct file system access.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it provides attackers with the capability to escalate their privileges and potentially gain deeper access to the compromised system. Successful exploitation could lead to unauthorized access to sensitive data, system compromise, and in severe cases, full system control. The vulnerability affects web servers running the CGIscript.net csMailto.cgi program, particularly those with inadequate security configurations or outdated software versions. Organizations utilizing this specific mailto script are at risk of data breaches and regulatory compliance violations, as the exposure of sensitive files could include authentication credentials, system configurations, or proprietary information. The attack can be executed remotely without requiring authentication, making it particularly dangerous for publicly accessible web applications.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2002-0750 should focus on implementing robust input validation and sanitization mechanisms within the affected application. The most effective immediate fix involves modifying the csMailto.cgi script to properly validate and sanitize all user-supplied input, particularly in the form-attachment field, by implementing strict path validation that prevents directory traversal sequences from being processed. Organizations should also implement proper access controls and file system permissions to limit the impact of potential exploitation attempts. Additionally, the implementation of web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can help detect and prevent exploitation attempts targeting this vulnerability. Security patches or updates from CGIscript.net should be applied immediately, and the application should be configured with least privilege principles, ensuring that the mailto script operates with minimal required permissions. The vulnerability highlights the importance of secure coding practices and input validation as fundamental security controls that should be implemented throughout all web application development processes, aligning with industry standards such as the OWASP Top Ten and NIST cybersecurity frameworks.