CVE-2002-2033 in FAQManager
Summary
by MITRE
faqmanager.cgi in FAQManager 2.2.5 and earlier allows remote attackers to read arbitrary files by specifying the filename in the toc parameter with a trailing null character (%00).
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/30/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2002-2033 affects FAQManager 2.2.5 and earlier versions, specifically targeting the faqmanager.cgi script within this web-based FAQ management system. This flaw represents a classic path traversal vulnerability that exploits improper input validation mechanisms in the handling of file access requests. The vulnerability manifests when an attacker manipulates the toc parameter to specify arbitrary filenames, leveraging a trailing null character to bypass normal file access restrictions.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate sanitization of user-supplied input within the FAQManager application. When the toc parameter is processed, the application fails to properly validate or sanitize the filename supplied by the attacker, allowing malicious input to be interpreted as a legitimate file path. The trailing null character %00 serves as a technique to terminate string processing prematurely, effectively bypassing the intended file access controls and enabling unauthorized file retrieval from the server's filesystem. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-22 category of Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory, commonly known as Path Traversal.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is significant as it allows remote attackers to access arbitrary files on the web server filesystem without authentication or authorization. Attackers can potentially retrieve sensitive information such as configuration files, database credentials, application source code, or other confidential data stored on the server. This vulnerability enables unauthorized data exfiltration and can serve as a stepping stone for further exploitation, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The remote nature of the attack means that an attacker can exploit this vulnerability from any location without requiring physical access to the target system.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2002-2033 should focus on implementing proper input validation and sanitization mechanisms within the application code. The most effective approach involves implementing strict input filtering that rejects or removes special characters such as null bytes and directory traversal sequences from user-supplied parameters. Organizations should also apply the latest security patches and updates from the FAQManager vendor to address this vulnerability. Additionally, implementing proper access controls and file permissions can limit the damage if exploitation occurs. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1213.002 for Data from Information Repositories, where adversaries extract sensitive data from web applications, and represents a common vector for initial access and privilege escalation in cyber attack campaigns.