CVE-2002-0811 in Bugzilla
Summary
by MITRE
Bugzilla 2.14 before 2.14.2, and 2.16 before 2.16rc2, may allow remote attackers to cause a denial of service or execute certain queries via a SQL injection attack on the sort order parameter to buglist.cgi.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/13/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2002-0811 affects Bugzilla versions 2.14 before 2.14.2 and 2.16 before 2.16rc2, representing a critical security flaw that exposes the application to remote code execution and denial of service attacks through SQL injection techniques. This vulnerability specifically targets the sort order parameter within the buglist.cgi script, which serves as a core interface for displaying bug reports in the Bugzilla issue tracking system. The flaw allows malicious actors to manipulate database queries by injecting arbitrary SQL commands through the sort parameter, potentially compromising the entire database infrastructure.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization within the buglist.cgi script. When users specify sorting criteria for bug lists, the application directly incorporates user-supplied parameters into SQL query construction without proper escaping or parameterization. This classic SQL injection vulnerability falls under CWE-89, which categorizes improper neutralization of special elements used in SQL commands. The attack vector specifically targets the sort order functionality where the application constructs dynamic SQL queries based on user input, creating opportunities for attackers to inject malicious SQL fragments that can alter query behavior, extract data, or even execute destructive operations.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple denial of service scenarios to encompass potential data breaches and system compromise. Remote attackers can leverage this flaw to execute arbitrary database queries, potentially accessing sensitive information stored within Bugzilla's database including user credentials, bug details, and system configuration data. The vulnerability also enables attackers to perform destructive operations such as data deletion or modification, fundamentally compromising the integrity and availability of the issue tracking system. In enterprise environments where Bugzilla serves as a critical component for software development and quality assurance processes, this vulnerability could severely disrupt development workflows and expose confidential project information.
Organizations affected by CVE-2002-0811 should implement immediate mitigations including upgrading to Bugzilla versions 2.14.2 or 2.16rc2, which contain patches addressing the SQL injection vulnerability. Additionally, administrators should consider implementing input validation measures at the web application firewall level and monitoring for suspicious query patterns. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1190 - Exploit Public-Facing Application, highlighting the need for robust application security controls. Security teams should also conduct thorough vulnerability assessments of their Bugzilla installations and implement proper database access controls to limit potential damage from successful exploitation attempts. The remediation process should include comprehensive testing to ensure that the patch does not introduce compatibility issues with existing workflows or custom extensions within the Bugzilla environment.