CVE-2003-0245 in HTTP Server
Summary
by MITRE
Vulnerability in the apr_psprintf function in the Apache Portable Runtime (APR) library for Apache 2.0.37 through 2.0.45 allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service (crash) and possibly execute arbitrary code via long strings, as demonstrated using XML objects to mod_dav, and possibly other vectors.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/22/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2003-0245 resides within the Apache Portable Runtime (APR) library, specifically in the apr_psprintf function that was present in Apache 2.0.37 through 2.0.45 versions. This flaw represents a classic buffer overflow condition that can be exploited through malformed input processing, making it particularly dangerous for web server environments where untrusted data is frequently processed. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and bounds checking within the string formatting routine that handles dynamic string construction and manipulation.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits the apr_psprintf function's handling of variable-length input strings, particularly when processing XML objects through the mod_dav module. When the function receives excessively long strings, it fails to properly validate the input length against allocated buffer boundaries, leading to memory corruption that can result in program termination or potentially arbitrary code execution. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-121, which categorizes buffer overflow conditions where insufficient boundary checks allow data to overwrite adjacent memory locations. The exploitation mechanism typically involves crafting specially formatted XML payloads that trigger the vulnerable code path when the web server attempts to process these objects.
The operational impact of CVE-2003-0245 extends beyond simple denial of service to potentially enable remote code execution, making it a critical security concern for Apache web server deployments. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to crash the web server process, causing service disruption, or in more sophisticated attacks, they may be able to inject and execute malicious code within the web server context. This vulnerability affects the core APR library that underpins many Apache modules and components, amplifying its potential impact across the entire web server infrastructure. The mod_dav module serves as a particularly effective attack vector since it handles web-based distributed authoring operations that frequently process user-supplied XML data.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability primarily involve immediate patching of affected Apache installations to versions that include fixed APR libraries, typically Apache 2.0.46 and later. System administrators should also implement input validation controls at multiple layers, including web application firewalls and content filtering mechanisms, to prevent malformed XML objects from reaching the vulnerable web server components. Network segmentation and access controls can limit the attack surface by restricting direct access to vulnerable web server endpoints. Organizations should also consider implementing intrusion detection systems that can identify patterns associated with exploitation attempts. From an operational security perspective, this vulnerability demonstrates the importance of maintaining up-to-date third-party libraries and conducting regular security assessments of web server configurations. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this as a privilege escalation and execution technique, specifically leveraging software vulnerabilities to gain unauthorized access to system resources and potentially establish persistent access within the compromised environment.