CVE-2002-0773 in Hosting Controller
Summary
by MITRE
imp_rootdir.asp for Hosting Controller allows remote attackers to copy or delete arbitrary files and directories via a direct request to imp_rootdir.asp and modifying parameters such as (1) ftp, (2) owwwPath, and (3) oftpPath.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/14/2025
The vulnerability described in CVE-2002-0773 affects the imp_rootdir.asp component within Hosting Controller, a web-based application management system. This flaw represents a critical directory traversal and arbitrary file manipulation vulnerability that exposes the underlying system to remote exploitation. The vulnerability specifically targets the file import functionality that handles FTP operations and directory management within the hosting environment, creating a pathway for unauthorized users to manipulate system files through direct web requests.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and parameter sanitization within the imp_rootdir.asp script. Attackers can exploit this weakness by crafting malicious HTTP requests that modify three critical parameters: ftp, owwwPath, and oftpPath. These parameters control file transfer operations and directory paths within the hosting controller's file system. When improperly validated, these parameters allow attackers to specify arbitrary file paths that can result in unauthorized file copying or deletion operations. The vulnerability essentially bypasses normal access controls and file system permissions, enabling remote attackers to manipulate files with elevated privileges.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted. Remote attackers can leverage this weakness to execute unauthorized file operations including copying sensitive system files, deleting critical directories, and potentially gaining persistent access to the hosting environment. This vulnerability directly enables privilege escalation scenarios where attackers can manipulate the hosting controller's file system to install malicious software, modify configuration files, or remove essential system components. The implications extend beyond simple file manipulation to include potential system compromise and data destruction within the hosting infrastructure.
This vulnerability aligns with CWE-22, which describes improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal attacks. The flaw also maps to ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for Command and Scripting Interpreter, as attackers can potentially execute commands through the manipulated file operations. Additionally, the vulnerability demonstrates characteristics of T1566 for Phishing with Malicious Attachments and T1078 for Valid Accounts, as it allows attackers to leverage legitimate administrative functions to perform unauthorized operations. Organizations with Hosting Controller installations face significant risk of data loss, system compromise, and potential service disruption when this vulnerability remains unpatched.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2002-0773 should include immediate patching of the Hosting Controller application to address the input validation deficiencies in imp_rootdir.asp. System administrators must implement proper parameter validation and sanitization to prevent malicious input from being processed. Network-level protections such as web application firewalls should be configured to monitor and block suspicious requests targeting the vulnerable script. Access controls should be strengthened to limit direct web access to administrative components, and regular security audits should verify that all input parameters are properly validated before processing. Additionally, implementing principle of least privilege access and monitoring for unusual file system operations can help detect exploitation attempts and minimize the impact of successful attacks.