CVE-2002-1654 in Netscape
Summary
by MITRE
iPlanet Web Server Enterprise Edition and Netscape Enterprise Server 4.0 and 4.1 allows remote attackers to conduct HTTP Basic Authentication via the wp-force-auth Web Publisher command, which provides a distinct attack vector and may make it easier to conduct brute force password guessing without detection.
If you want to get the best quality for vulnerability data then you always have to consider VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/03/2025
The vulnerability described in CVE-2002-1654 affects iPlanet Web Server Enterprise Edition and Netscape Enterprise Server versions 4.0 and 4.1, representing a significant security flaw in web server authentication mechanisms. This issue specifically targets the wp-force-auth Web Publisher command, which creates an unintended pathway for attackers to exploit HTTP Basic Authentication methods. The vulnerability exists within the server's handling of authentication requests and represents a critical weakness in the authentication framework that was prevalent during the early 2000s web server landscape.
The technical flaw manifests through the improper implementation of the wp-force-auth command, which allows remote attackers to bypass normal authentication procedures and directly initiate HTTP Basic Authentication requests. This creates a scenario where attackers can systematically test credentials against the server without triggering typical intrusion detection mechanisms that would normally flag repeated failed authentication attempts. The vulnerability essentially provides a backdoor method for conducting brute force attacks against user accounts, as the authentication process operates outside the normal monitoring and logging procedures that would typically detect such malicious activity.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability significantly increases the risk of unauthorized access to web applications protected by these server versions. Attackers can leverage this flaw to conduct prolonged password guessing campaigns without detection, making it particularly dangerous for environments where sensitive data is stored or processed. The impact extends beyond simple credential theft, as successful exploitation could lead to complete system compromise, data breaches, and unauthorized access to privileged resources. The vulnerability's ability to circumvent detection mechanisms makes it especially concerning for organizations that rely on traditional security monitoring approaches.
The attack vector described in this CVE aligns with several common exploitation techniques documented in the cybersecurity community, particularly those involving authentication bypass vulnerabilities. This issue demonstrates how flawed implementation of web server components can create unexpected security weaknesses that attackers can exploit to gain unauthorized access. Organizations using these specific server versions should consider implementing additional authentication controls, such as account lockout mechanisms and rate limiting, to mitigate the risk. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of proper input validation and authentication flow management in web server implementations, as outlined in various security standards and best practices. This particular weakness represents a clear violation of secure coding principles and demonstrates the need for comprehensive security testing of authentication mechanisms. The impact of this vulnerability extends beyond immediate exploitation to include potential long-term security implications for organizations that fail to address the underlying implementation flaw. Security professionals should recognize this as a critical issue requiring immediate remediation through either patching or architectural changes to prevent unauthorized access to web resources.