CVE-2002-1859 in Application Server
Summary
by MITRE
Orion Application Server 1.5.3, when running on Windows, allows remote attackers to retrieve files in the WEB-INF directory, which contains Java class files and configuration information, via a request to the WEB-INF directory with a trailing dot ("WEB-INF.").
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/01/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2002-1859 affects the Orion Application Server version 1.5.3 when operating on Windows platforms. This security flaw represents a directory traversal attack vector that allows remote adversaries to access sensitive files within the application's web directory structure. The vulnerability specifically targets the WEB-INF directory, which serves as a critical security boundary in Java web applications where class files, configuration data, and other sensitive resources are typically stored. The exploitation technique leverages a simple yet effective method involving a trailing dot in the directory path, transforming a legitimate request into an unauthorized file access attempt.
The technical mechanism behind this vulnerability stems from improper input validation within the Orion Application Server's request handling logic. When a client submits a request containing a path that includes the WEB-INF directory with a trailing dot such as "WEB-INF.", the server fails to properly sanitize this input, allowing the traversal to bypass normal access controls. This behavior creates a path traversal condition that enables attackers to access files that should normally be protected within the WEB-INF directory structure. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because the WEB-INF directory typically contains sensitive information including application configuration files, class files, and potentially database connection details that could be exploited for further attacks.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability poses significant risks to organizations utilizing Orion Application Server 1.5.3 on Windows systems. The exposure of Java class files and configuration information provides attackers with insights into the application architecture and potentially sensitive data that could be used for privilege escalation or additional exploitation attempts. The impact extends beyond simple information disclosure as the configuration files might contain database credentials, encryption keys, or other sensitive parameters that could compromise the entire application stack. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-22, which categorizes directory traversal flaws, and represents a classic example of improper input validation that violates fundamental security principles. The attack can be executed remotely without authentication, making it particularly dangerous for publicly accessible web applications.
The exploitation of this vulnerability demonstrates a pattern consistent with ATT&CK technique T1083, which involves discovering system information through directory listing and file access. Security practitioners should recognize this as a critical vulnerability requiring immediate attention, as it essentially provides attackers with a backdoor into the application's internal structure. Organizations should implement network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure, while also considering the broader implications of running outdated application server software. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper input validation and the need for robust security testing of web application servers. Additionally, this issue underscores the necessity of maintaining current software versions and applying security patches promptly, as it represents a known weakness that has been addressed in subsequent releases of the Orion Application Server. Organizations should conduct thorough security assessments to identify similar vulnerabilities in their web application infrastructure and implement proper access controls to prevent unauthorized file access patterns.