CVE-2002-2416 in HTTP Server
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in Zeroo web server 1.5 allows remote attackers to read arbitrary files via a .. (dot dot) in a URL GET request.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/18/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2002-2416 represents a critical directory traversal flaw in the Zeroo web server version 1.5 that exposes systems to unauthorized file access. This type of vulnerability falls under the broader category of path traversal attacks and is classified as CWE-22 according to the Common Weakness Enumeration framework. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation within the web server's URL processing mechanism, specifically failing to properly sanitize or filter directory path components that contain double dots or parent directory references.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability allows remote attackers to manipulate URL GET requests by incorporating dot-dot sequences such as ../ or ..\ into their requests. When the Zeroo web server processes these malformed URLs, it fails to properly resolve the directory paths, enabling attackers to navigate outside the intended document root directory. This occurs because the server does not adequately validate or normalize the requested file paths before attempting to access the underlying filesystem, creating a direct pathway to arbitrary file retrieval.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it provides attackers with the capability to access sensitive system files, configuration data, and potentially executable code that should remain protected. An attacker could leverage this weakness to access system configuration files, user credentials stored in plaintext, application source code, database files, or other confidential data that resides on the server filesystem. The vulnerability's remote nature means that exploitation does not require local system access, making it particularly dangerous in networked environments where web servers are exposed to external traffic.
Security professionals should note that this vulnerability aligns with several techniques documented in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the T1083 technique for discovering system information and T1566 for credential access through various means. Organizations running vulnerable versions of Zeroo web server should immediately implement mitigations including software updates to versions that properly address directory traversal vulnerabilities, input validation controls, and restrictive file access permissions. Additionally, network segmentation and web application firewalls can provide additional layers of protection against such attacks while the primary vulnerability is being addressed through official patches or vendor-provided fixes.