CVE-2002-1864 in Simple Web Server
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in Simple Web Server (SWS) 0.0.4 through 0.1.0 allows remote attackers to read arbitrary files via a ".." (dot dot) in an HTTP request.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/23/2025
The directory traversal vulnerability identified in Simple Web Server versions 0.0.4 through 0.1.0 represents a critical security flaw that enables remote attackers to access arbitrary files on the target system. This vulnerability falls under the Common Weakness Enumeration category CWE-22, which specifically addresses improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal attacks. The flaw occurs when the web server fails to properly validate or sanitize input parameters that contain directory path information, allowing malicious users to manipulate HTTP requests to navigate outside the intended document root directory.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits the fundamental weakness in how the Simple Web Server processes file requests containing double dots or parent directory references. When an attacker submits an HTTP request with sequences such as ".." or "../", the web server does not adequately filter these components, permitting access to files outside the designated web root directory. This allows unauthorized access to sensitive system files, configuration data, and potentially confidential information that should remain protected from external access. The vulnerability exists because the application does not properly implement path normalization or validation routines that would prevent such traversal attempts.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it provides attackers with the capability to access critical system resources including password files, configuration databases, and potentially system binaries. Attackers can leverage this weakness to gain insights into the system architecture, identify running services, and potentially escalate privileges by accessing sensitive configuration files or system credentials. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1083 (File and Directory Discovery) and T1566 (Phishing) as attackers often use such reconnaissance capabilities to gather intelligence for more sophisticated attacks. The vulnerability affects systems where the Simple Web Server is deployed and can result in complete system compromise if sensitive files are accessible through the web interface.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should include immediate patching of the Simple Web Server to versions that properly implement input validation and path traversal prevention mechanisms. Organizations should implement proper input sanitization routines that filter out or reject directory traversal sequences before processing file requests. The recommended approach involves implementing strict path validation that ensures all file access requests remain within the designated document root directory. Additionally, system administrators should consider implementing web application firewalls that can detect and block suspicious path traversal attempts, and apply the principle of least privilege by restricting web server access to only necessary files and directories. Regular security auditing and input validation testing should be conducted to prevent similar vulnerabilities from being introduced in future deployments.