CVE-2002-1549 in Light HTTPd
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in Light HTTPd (lhttpd) 0.1 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a long HTTP GET request.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/09/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2002-1549 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw within Light HTTPd version 0.1, a lightweight web server implementation that was widely used in embedded systems and resource-constrained environments during the early 2000s. This vulnerability resides in the server's handling of HTTP GET requests, specifically when processing lengthy URI parameters that exceed the allocated buffer space. The flaw demonstrates a classic stack-based buffer overflow condition where the application fails to properly validate input length before copying data into fixed-size memory buffers, creating an exploitable condition that can be leveraged by remote attackers to gain unauthorized system control.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate bounds checking within the HTTP request parsing logic of lhttpd. When a remote attacker crafts a malicious HTTP GET request containing an excessively long URI parameter, the server's internal buffer management mechanism fails to enforce size limitations, resulting in memory corruption that overflows into adjacent memory segments. This overflow can overwrite critical program execution elements including return addresses, function pointers, and stack canaries, enabling attackers to redirect program flow and execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the running web server process. The vulnerability specifically maps to CWE-121, which categorizes stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190 for exploiting vulnerabilities in software applications.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple remote code execution, as it fundamentally compromises the integrity and confidentiality of systems running vulnerable versions of lhttpd. Attackers can leverage this flaw to establish persistent backdoors, escalate privileges, or perform reconnaissance activities within the network environment. Given that lhttpd was commonly deployed in embedded devices, routers, and network appliances, the potential attack surface encompasses critical infrastructure components where such vulnerabilities could lead to widespread system compromise. The remote nature of the exploit means that attackers need not have physical access to the target systems, making the vulnerability particularly dangerous in environments where network exposure is inevitable.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2002-1549 require immediate patching of affected systems with updated versions of Light HTTPd that implement proper input validation and buffer management. Organizations should conduct comprehensive inventory assessments to identify all systems running vulnerable versions of the software and prioritize remediation efforts accordingly. Network segmentation and firewall rules can provide temporary protective measures by limiting access to web services, though these should not be considered permanent solutions. Additionally, implementing input validation at multiple layers including web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can help detect and prevent exploitation attempts. The vulnerability serves as a prime example of why proper software development practices including input validation, bounds checking, and memory safety mechanisms are essential for maintaining secure system architectures, particularly in embedded and IoT environments where patch management may be challenging.