CVE-2002-1546 in Webweaver
Summary
by MITRE
BRS WebWeaver Web Server 1.01 allows remote attackers to bypass password protections for files and directories via an HTTP request containing a "/./" sequence.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/04/2025
The vulnerability described in CVE-2002-1546 represents a classic path traversal flaw in the BRS WebWeaver Web Server version 1.01 that fundamentally undermines access control mechanisms. This issue stems from the server's improper handling of directory traversal sequences within HTTP requests, specifically when the "/./" sequence is encountered. The flaw allows malicious actors to manipulate file system paths and gain unauthorized access to protected resources that should otherwise remain restricted to authenticated users.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits weaknesses in the web server's input validation and path resolution logic. When a client submits an HTTP request containing the "/./" sequence, the server fails to properly sanitize or normalize the path before attempting to access the requested file or directory. This inadequate sanitization creates a condition where the server interprets the traversal sequence as a legitimate path navigation instruction rather than a malicious attempt to bypass security controls. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates at the file system level, allowing attackers to access files outside of the intended web root directory structure.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability exposes organizations to significant security risks including unauthorized data access, information disclosure, and potential system compromise. Attackers can leverage this flaw to access sensitive configuration files, user data, application source code, and other protected resources that should remain hidden from unauthenticated users. The implications extend beyond simple unauthorized access as this vulnerability can serve as a stepping stone for more sophisticated attacks, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it requires minimal sophistication and can be executed through standard web browser interactions.
This vulnerability aligns with CWE-22 Path Traversal and maps to several ATT&CK techniques including T1078 Valid Accounts for maintaining access and T1566 Phishing for initial compromise. The weakness demonstrates poor input validation practices and inadequate path normalization that violate fundamental web security principles. Organizations should implement comprehensive mitigations including proper path validation, directory traversal sequence filtering, and robust access control mechanisms. The recommended solutions encompass updating to patched versions of the web server software, implementing web application firewalls, and establishing strict input validation policies that reject or normalize potentially dangerous path sequences. Additionally, security teams should conduct regular vulnerability assessments and maintain up-to-date threat intelligence to identify similar patterns in other web server implementations that may exhibit comparable weaknesses.