CVE-2002-1819 in TinyHTTPD
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in TinyHTTPD 0.1 .0 allows remote attackers to read or execute arbitrary files via a ".." (dot dot) in the URL.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/14/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2002-1819 represents a critical directory traversal flaw within the TinyHTTPD web server version 0.1.0, classified under CWE-22 as improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory. This weakness stems from the server's inadequate validation of user-supplied URL parameters, specifically failing to sanitize input containing directory traversal sequences such as ".." or "%2e%2e". The flaw exists in the web server's file handling mechanism where it processes requests without properly restricting access to files outside the intended document root directory.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when remote attackers construct malicious URLs containing directory traversal sequences that manipulate the web server's file resolution process. When the server encounters these sequences, it interprets them as commands to navigate up directory levels, potentially allowing access to sensitive system files, configuration data, or executable components that should remain protected. This vulnerability falls under the ATT&CK technique T1566.001 for initial access through malicious web content, and T1083 for file and directory discovery, as attackers can systematically explore the file system to identify valuable targets.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it can enable full system compromise when combined with other attack vectors. Attackers can leverage this weakness to read system configuration files, access database files, retrieve source code, or even execute arbitrary commands if the web server has sufficient privileges. The vulnerability affects any system running TinyHTTPD 0.1.0 and is particularly dangerous in environments where the web server has access to sensitive directories or where the server runs with elevated privileges. The lack of proper input validation creates an attack surface that can be exploited by automated scanning tools, making it a prime target for mass exploitation campaigns.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2002-1819 should focus on immediate patching of the TinyHTTPD server to a version that properly validates and sanitizes URL parameters. Organizations should implement input validation at the web server level, ensuring that all URL components are checked for directory traversal sequences before file access is granted. Network segmentation and firewall rules can help limit access to the vulnerable server, while monitoring systems should be configured to detect suspicious URL patterns containing ".." sequences. The implementation of a web application firewall (WAF) with rules specifically designed to block directory traversal attempts provides an additional layer of protection. Regular security audits and vulnerability assessments should include checks for legacy web servers and ensure proper configuration of file access controls to prevent unauthorized directory traversal operations.