CVE-2002-1068 in DP-303
Summary
by MITRE
The web server for D-Link DP-300 print server allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service (hang) via a large HTTP POST request.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/26/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2002-1068 affects the D-Link DP-300 print server web interface, representing a classic denial of service flaw that exploits improper input handling in network services. This issue specifically manifests when the device receives HTTP POST requests containing excessive data payloads, causing the web server component to become unresponsive or crash entirely. The vulnerability stems from insufficient validation mechanisms within the print server's HTTP implementation, which fails to properly manage or limit incoming request sizes. This weakness allows remote attackers to exploit the device's web interface by sending oversized POST requests that overwhelm the server's processing capabilities, resulting in service interruption for legitimate users.
From a technical perspective, this vulnerability operates at the application layer of the network stack and demonstrates characteristics consistent with CWE-770, which addresses resource exhaustion issues. The flaw essentially represents an inadequate buffer management problem where the web server component does not implement proper bounds checking or request size limiting for HTTP POST operations. When the server receives a POST request exceeding its allocated buffer space or processing capacity, it enters a state where it cannot properly handle subsequent legitimate requests, effectively creating a denial of service condition. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it can be exploited remotely without requiring authentication, making it accessible to any attacker with network access to the device.
The operational impact of CVE-2002-1068 extends beyond simple service interruption, as it can compromise the availability of print services within network environments that rely on the D-Link DP-300 device. Organizations using this print server may experience disruptions to their printing workflows, potentially affecting productivity and business operations. The vulnerability's remote exploitability means that attackers can target these devices from external networks, making it a significant threat in unsecured environments. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to the T1499.004 technique related to network denial of service, where adversaries leverage weaknesses in network infrastructure components to disrupt services. The attack surface is particularly broad since the print server's web interface is typically accessible to users within the local network and potentially exposed to external networks if proper firewall rules are not implemented.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on implementing proper input validation and request size limiting mechanisms within the affected device's web server configuration. Network administrators should consider applying firmware updates from D-Link if available, as the company may have released patches addressing this specific issue. Additionally, implementing network segmentation and access controls can limit the exposure of the print server to unauthorized users, while firewall rules should be configured to restrict access to the web interface and limit the size of incoming HTTP requests. Monitoring network traffic for unusual POST request patterns may help detect potential exploitation attempts, and regular security assessments should include testing for similar buffer overflow and resource exhaustion vulnerabilities in networked printing devices. Organizations should also maintain inventory records of all print server devices and ensure that all networked printing infrastructure receives regular security updates and patches to prevent similar vulnerabilities from remaining unaddressed in their environments.