CVE-2002-1990 in Resin
Summary
by MITRE
Resin 2.0.5 through 2.1.2 allows remote attackers to reveal physical path information via a URL request for the example Java class file HelloServlet.
If you want to get the best quality for vulnerability data then you always have to consider VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/31/2025
The vulnerability described in CVE-2002-1990 represents a critical information disclosure flaw affecting Resin web server versions 2.0.5 through 2.1.2. This issue arises from the improper handling of URL requests that target example Java class files within the application server's directory structure. When an attacker crafts a specific URL request for the HelloServlet example class file, the server inadvertently reveals the physical file path information of the underlying operating system. This type of vulnerability falls under the category of path disclosure attacks that can provide attackers with valuable reconnaissance information about the target system's file structure and deployment environment.
The technical implementation of this flaw stems from Resin's inadequate error handling mechanisms when processing requests for non-existent or example resources. When a user requests a URL that points to the HelloServlet example class file, the web server does not properly sanitize or restrict the response to prevent the exposure of internal path information. This occurs because the application server's default configuration allows for verbose error messages that include filesystem paths, which can be leveraged by malicious actors to understand the server's directory structure and potentially identify other sensitive files or components. The vulnerability specifically manifests when the server attempts to locate and serve the requested example resource, resulting in the inclusion of absolute or relative file paths in the HTTP response headers or error messages.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it provides attackers with crucial system intelligence that can be used in subsequent attack phases. The revealed physical path information can facilitate directory traversal attacks, help identify other potentially vulnerable components within the same directory structure, and enable attackers to craft more sophisticated exploitation techniques. This information disclosure can also aid in bypassing security controls or identifying misconfigurations within the application server environment. From a cybersecurity perspective, this vulnerability represents a significant risk as it provides attackers with foundational knowledge about the target system's architecture and can serve as a stepping stone for more advanced attacks. The vulnerability affects organizations running Resin versions within the specified range, potentially exposing them to reconnaissance activities that could lead to further compromise of their web applications.
The security implications of this vulnerability align with CWE-200, which defines information disclosure vulnerabilities that occur when systems inadvertently reveal sensitive information to unauthorized users. This specific flaw also corresponds to ATT&CK technique T1083, which covers the discovery of system information through reconnaissance activities. Organizations should immediately implement mitigations including updating to Resin versions that address this vulnerability, configuring the web server to suppress detailed error messages, and implementing proper input validation for URL requests. Additionally, security measures such as disabling example applications in production environments, implementing web application firewalls, and conducting regular security assessments can help prevent exploitation of this information disclosure vulnerability. The remediation process should also include reviewing server configurations to ensure that error responses do not include filesystem path information and establishing monitoring protocols to detect unusual URL request patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts.