CVE-2002-1275 in html2ps
Summary
by MITRE
Unknown vulnerability in html2ps HTML/PostScript converter 1.0, when used within LPRng, allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via "unsanitized input."
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/18/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2002-1275 represents a critical security flaw within the html2ps HTML/PostScript converter version 1.0 when integrated with LPRng print server software. This issue stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms that fail to properly sanitize user-supplied data before processing. The vulnerability specifically affects systems where html2ps is executed in a context that accepts external input, particularly when deployed as part of the LPRng printing infrastructure. The flaw creates an environment where malicious actors can manipulate input parameters to trigger unintended code execution within the target system. This represents a classic command injection vulnerability that exploits the lack of proper input sanitization and validation.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through the manipulation of input data that html2ps processes when converting HTML documents to PostScript format. When LPRng invokes html2ps to handle print jobs, the converter receives potentially malicious input that is not properly filtered or escaped before being processed. This unsanitized input can contain shell commands or other executable code sequences that are interpreted and executed by the underlying system. The vulnerability leverages the trust relationship between the print server and the conversion utility, allowing attackers to inject arbitrary commands that execute with the privileges of the html2ps process. This creates a significant attack surface where remote adversaries can gain unauthorized code execution capabilities within the print server environment.
The operational impact of CVE-2002-1275 extends beyond simple code execution to encompass potential system compromise and data exposure. Attackers who successfully exploit this vulnerability can execute arbitrary commands with the privileges of the affected service, potentially leading to complete system takeover. The vulnerability affects organizations that rely on LPRng print servers with html2ps conversion capabilities, creating widespread risk across various network environments including corporate networks, educational institutions, and government agencies. The remote nature of the attack means that adversaries do not require physical access to the systems, making the vulnerability particularly dangerous for networked environments. This flaw aligns with CWE-77 and CWE-78 categories, which specifically address command injection vulnerabilities where untrusted data is incorporated into system commands without proper sanitization.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate implementation of input validation and sanitization measures within the html2ps utility. System administrators should ensure that all input data is properly escaped and validated before processing, implementing proper parameter sanitization techniques to prevent command injection attacks. The most effective immediate solution involves upgrading to patched versions of html2ps and LPRng that address the input validation shortcomings. Organizations should also implement network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure of vulnerable systems, while monitoring for suspicious print job activities that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input handling and the dangers of assuming that external inputs are safe without validation. From an ATT&CK perspective, this vulnerability maps to techniques involving command injection and privilege escalation, highlighting the need for comprehensive security controls that address both input validation and access control mechanisms.