CVE-2002-1592 in HTTP Server
Summary
by MITRE
The ap_log_rerror function in Apache 2.0 through 2.035, when a CGI application encounters an error, sends error messages to the client that include the full path for the server, which allows remote attackers to obtain sensitive information.
VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/03/2025
The vulnerability described in CVE-2002-1592 represents a critical information disclosure flaw within the Apache HTTP Server version 2.0 through 2.0.35. This issue specifically affects the ap_log_rerror function which is responsible for logging error messages within the server's runtime environment. When CGI applications encounter errors during execution, the server's error logging mechanism inadvertently includes the complete server filesystem path in the error response sent to clients. This represents a significant security risk as it exposes sensitive system information that could be exploited by malicious actors to gain deeper insights into the server's configuration and file structure.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper error handling within the Apache 2.0 web server architecture. The ap_log_rerror function, which serves as a core logging mechanism for server errors, fails to sanitize error messages before transmitting them to client applications. When CGI scripts produce errors, the server's logging process incorporates the full filesystem path where the script resides, including directory structures and potentially sensitive location information. This flaw is particularly dangerous because it occurs automatically during error conditions, requiring no special exploitation techniques from attackers. The vulnerability directly maps to CWE-200, which describes improper handling of sensitive information in software systems, specifically focusing on the exposure of sensitive data through error messages.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it provides attackers with crucial reconnaissance data for subsequent attacks. The exposed server paths can reveal directory structures, potentially exposing sensitive file locations, backup directories, or configuration files that might otherwise remain hidden. Attackers can leverage this information to craft more sophisticated attacks, including directory traversal exploits or targeted attacks against specific system components. The vulnerability affects any environment where Apache 2.0 is deployed with CGI support, making it particularly relevant for web servers hosting dynamic content or applications that require server-side processing capabilities.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2002-1592 should focus on both immediate patching and configuration hardening measures. The primary solution involves upgrading to Apache 2.0.36 or later versions where this vulnerability has been addressed through improved error message sanitization. Organizations should also implement proper error handling configurations that prevent detailed server path information from being exposed to end users. Security practitioners should consider implementing custom error pages that do not include system-specific information and should regularly audit server configurations to ensure that error logging does not inadvertently expose sensitive paths. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1212, which focuses on exploitation of information disclosure vulnerabilities for reconnaissance purposes, making it a critical target for defensive measures in cybersecurity frameworks.