CVE-2002-1742 in SOAP::Lite
Summary
by MITRE
SOAP::Lite 0.50 through 0.52 allows remote attackers to load arbitrary Perl functions by suppling a non-existent function in a script using a SOAP::Lite module, which causes the AUTOLOAD subroutine to trigger.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/19/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2002-1742 affects SOAP::Lite versions 0.50 through 0.52, presenting a critical security flaw that enables remote attackers to execute arbitrary Perl code through manipulated SOAP requests. This vulnerability exploits the module's AUTOLOAD subroutine mechanism, which serves as a fallback handler for undefined function calls within Perl scripts. When an attacker submits a SOAP request containing a reference to a non-existent function, the AUTOLOAD subroutine activates and processes the request, creating an avenue for code injection attacks. The flaw fundamentally stems from inadequate input validation and improper handling of undefined function calls within the SOAP::Lite framework.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability leverages Perl's AUTOLOAD feature, which automatically executes when a script attempts to call a subroutine that does not exist. This mechanism, designed for dynamic subroutine loading, becomes exploitable when SOAP::Lite fails to properly sanitize or validate the function names provided in SOAP requests. Attackers can craft malicious SOAP payloads that reference functions which, when processed by the AUTOLOAD subroutine, trigger unintended code execution. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and can be exploited remotely without authentication, making it particularly dangerous for web services that utilize SOAP::Lite for communication. This flaw directly relates to CWE-94, which describes "Improper Control of Generation of Code ('Code Injection')" and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for "Command and Scripting Interpreter: Perl" in lateral movement scenarios.
The operational impact of CVE-2002-1742 extends beyond simple code execution, potentially allowing attackers to gain full control over affected systems running SOAP::Lite services. An attacker could leverage this vulnerability to execute arbitrary commands on the server, access sensitive data, modify system configurations, or establish persistent backdoors. The vulnerability affects any system that implements SOAP::Lite versions 0.50 through 0.52 for web service communication, particularly those handling untrusted input from external sources. Organizations using this module in production environments face significant risk, as the attack surface includes any SOAP endpoint that accepts external requests. The vulnerability's exploitation requires minimal skill and can be automated, making it attractive to both skilled attackers and script kiddies. This represents a classic example of how dynamic language features can introduce security risks when not properly secured against malicious input.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability primarily involve immediate upgrading to SOAP::Lite version 0.53 or later, where the issue has been addressed through improved input validation and enhanced AUTOLOAD handling. Organizations should also implement proper input sanitization measures for all SOAP requests, including validation of function names against a whitelist of allowed operations. Network segmentation and firewall rules can help limit exposure by restricting access to SOAP endpoints, while monitoring systems should be configured to detect unusual patterns in SOAP request processing. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls and runtime application self-protection mechanisms can provide additional layers of defense against exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of thorough security testing for dynamic language features and proper validation of all user-supplied input in web services. Security teams should also conduct comprehensive audits of all SOAP-based services and ensure that proper security patches are applied across all system components to prevent similar vulnerabilities from remaining unaddressed.