CVE-2002-1818 in httpbench
Summary
by MITRE
ezhttpbench.php in eZ httpbench 1.1 allows remote attackers to read arbitrary files via a full pathname in the AnalyseSite parameter.
If you want to get the best quality for vulnerability data then you always have to consider VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/01/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2002-1818 resides within the ezhttpbench.php script of eZ httpbench version 1.1, representing a classic arbitrary file inclusion flaw that enables remote attackers to access sensitive system files. This issue stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization mechanisms within the AnalyseSite parameter processing, allowing malicious actors to supply full pathnames that bypass normal file access controls. The vulnerability operates under the broader category of insecure direct object reference flaws, which are classified under CWE-22 and fall within the ATT&CK framework's technique T1213 for Data from Information Repositories. The flaw specifically allows attackers to traverse the file system and retrieve files that should remain protected, potentially exposing critical system information, configuration files, or even source code that could aid in further exploitation attempts.
The technical execution of this vulnerability involves crafting a malicious request where the AnalyseSite parameter contains a full pathname pointing to target files on the server. When the application processes this input without proper validation, it directly incorporates the supplied path into file operations, enabling unauthorized file access. This type of vulnerability typically occurs when developers assume that user input will be properly formatted or when they fail to implement adequate path validation mechanisms. The impact extends beyond simple information disclosure, as attackers can potentially access sensitive files containing database credentials, application configuration details, or other system-specific information that could facilitate privilege escalation or additional attack vectors. The vulnerability affects the confidentiality aspect of the CIA triad and represents a significant security risk in web applications that process user-supplied file paths without proper sanitization.
Operational consequences of this vulnerability can be severe for organizations running affected versions of eZ httpbench, as it provides attackers with unauthorized access to potentially sensitive system information. The ability to read arbitrary files means that attackers could obtain database connection strings, application keys, or other configuration data that might reveal internal network structures or authentication mechanisms. This vulnerability also demonstrates poor input validation practices that could indicate broader security weaknesses within the application's codebase, potentially exposing other components to similar attacks. Organizations may face compliance violations if sensitive data is accessed and potentially exfiltrated, particularly in environments governed by regulations such as pci dss or hipaa. The vulnerability's remote nature means that attackers do not require local system access or credentials, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited from anywhere on the internet without significant technical expertise.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2002-1818 should focus on implementing robust input validation and sanitization procedures for all user-supplied parameters, particularly those that influence file operations. The most effective approach involves using allowlists of permitted file paths or implementing proper path normalization and validation that prevents directory traversal sequences such as ../ or ..\ from being processed. Organizations should also consider implementing principle of least privilege access controls, ensuring that the web application runs with minimal required permissions and cannot access sensitive system files. Additionally, the application should be updated to a newer version of eZ httpbench that addresses this vulnerability, as the original version is likely to contain other security weaknesses. Security monitoring and logging should be enhanced to detect unusual file access patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. The remediation process should include comprehensive code reviews to identify similar vulnerabilities in other parts of the application, as this type of flaw often indicates broader security design issues that require systematic addressing rather than isolated fixes.