CVE-2002-1523 in Mini Server
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in Daniel Arenz Mini Server 2.1.6 allows remote attackers to read arbitrary files via (1) ../ (dot-dot slash) or (2) ..\ (dot-dot backslash) sequences.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/03/2019
The directory traversal vulnerability identified in CVE-2002-1523 affects the Daniel Arenz Mini Server version 2.1.6, representing a critical security flaw that permits remote attackers to access arbitrary files on the affected system. This vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation within the web server's file handling mechanisms, specifically failing to properly sanitize user-supplied paths that contain directory traversal sequences. The flaw enables attackers to bypass normal access controls and retrieve files from the server's file system that should otherwise remain protected.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits the fundamental weakness in path resolution where the server fails to properly validate or sanitize file path inputs. When attackers submit requests containing sequences such as ../ or ..\, the server processes these paths without adequate sanitization, allowing the traversal mechanism to navigate to parent directories and access files outside the intended web root directory. This type of vulnerability falls under the Common Weakness Enumeration category CWE-22, which specifically addresses improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal attacks. The vulnerability exists at the application layer where the server processes user input without proper validation, creating an attack surface that can be exploited to access sensitive system files, configuration data, or other restricted resources.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file access, as it can potentially lead to complete system compromise. Attackers can leverage this weakness to access critical system files including configuration files, database files, or even system binaries that may contain sensitive information or provide opportunities for further exploitation. The remote nature of this attack means that adversaries do not require physical access to the system, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited from anywhere on the network. This vulnerability directly aligns with several tactics described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework, particularly those related to credential access and privilege escalation through exploitation of software vulnerabilities.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2002-1523 should focus on immediate patching of the affected server software to address the directory traversal vulnerability. Organizations should implement proper input validation and sanitization measures that filter or reject path traversal sequences before they are processed by the application. Network segmentation and firewall rules can help limit access to the affected server, while monitoring systems should be configured to detect suspicious path traversal attempts. Additionally, implementing proper access controls and privilege separation ensures that even if an attacker successfully exploits the vulnerability, they cannot access files beyond the intended scope of the web application. Regular security audits and vulnerability assessments should be conducted to identify and remediate similar weaknesses in other applications and systems within the organization's infrastructure.