CVE-2003-0411 in One Application Server
Summary
by MITRE
Sun ONE Application Server 7.0 for Windows 2000/XP allows remote attackers to obtain JSP source code via a request that uses the uppercase ".JSP" extension instead of the lowercase .jsp extension.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/16/2025
This vulnerability exists in Sun ONE Application Server 7.0 running on Windows 2000 and XP operating systems, representing a critical information disclosure flaw that allows remote attackers to access sensitive JSP source code files. The vulnerability stems from the server's improper handling of file extensions, specifically when uppercase ".JSP" extensions are used instead of the standard lowercase ".jsp" extension. This behavior creates a path traversal or file access issue where the application server fails to properly validate or normalize the file extension, leading to unintended exposure of server-side source code. The flaw operates through the web server's request processing mechanism where case-sensitive file extension handling allows attackers to bypass normal security controls and retrieve JSP source code that should remain protected on the server. This vulnerability is classified under CWE-200 as exposure of sensitive information and can be categorized under ATT&CK technique T1566 for credential access through exploitation of server-side vulnerabilities.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the application server's web container processing requests for JSP files with uppercase extensions. When a request is made using ".JSP" instead of ".jsp", the server's file resolution mechanism fails to properly map the request to the intended resource, potentially allowing access to the underlying source files through alternative path resolution methods. This issue demonstrates poor input validation and normalization practices within the web server's file handling routines. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it exposes not only the JSP source code but potentially sensitive business logic, database connection strings, and other confidential information that may be embedded within the server-side scripts. Attackers can leverage this flaw to gain intelligence about the application architecture, identify potential security weaknesses, and develop more sophisticated attack vectors against the server infrastructure.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as the exposed JSP source code can contain critical system information including database credentials, hardcoded API keys, and application logic that could be used for further exploitation. This exposure creates opportunities for attackers to perform advanced persistent threats, escalate privileges, or conduct targeted attacks against the application server. The vulnerability affects organizations running Sun ONE Application Server 7.0 on Windows 2000 and XP systems, which were widely deployed in enterprise environments during the early 2000s. The risk is amplified because these older operating systems and application servers are often not properly maintained or patched, making them attractive targets for cybercriminals seeking to exploit known vulnerabilities. Organizations may face compliance violations and regulatory penalties if sensitive data is exposed through this vulnerability, particularly in industries governed by standards such as pci dss or hipaa that mandate protection of sensitive information.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability include immediate patching of the Sun ONE Application Server to the latest security updates provided by sun microsystems, implementing proper input validation and normalization for file extensions, and configuring the web server to reject requests with non-standard file extensions. Organizations should also implement web application firewalls to detect and block suspicious requests with uppercase extensions, conduct regular security assessments of web applications, and establish proper code review processes to prevent similar issues in custom applications. Additionally, implementing proper access controls and file permission settings can help prevent unauthorized access to source code files even if the vulnerability exists. The fix typically involves ensuring that the application server properly normalizes file extensions to lowercase before processing requests, preventing case-sensitive variations from bypassing security controls. This vulnerability underscores the importance of proper input validation and the need for comprehensive security testing of web applications, particularly in legacy systems that may contain unpatched security flaws.