MEDIUMPOC
CVE-2003-0102
NVD-CWE-OtherPublished: March 18, 2003· Updated: Jun 16, 2026
4.6
CVSS v3.1
Official Description
Buffer overflow in tryelf() in readelf.c of the file command allows attackers to execute arbitrary code as the user running file, possibly via a large entity size value in an ELF header (elfhdr.e_shentsize).
Technical Analysis
CVE-2003-0102 requires local access, meaning attackers must already have a foothold on the target system.
Exploitation requires some privileges, which limits the exposure to scenarios where an attacker has already gained initial access.
A proof-of-concept (PoC) exploit exists for CVE-2003-0102. While not yet confirmed in active campaigns, the availability of PoC code increases exploitation risk substantially.
CVSS v3.1 Vector Breakdown
Exploitability
Attack VectorLocal
Attack ComplexityLow
Privileges Req.
User Interaction
Scope
Impact
ConfidentialityP
IntegrityP
AvailabilityP
AV:L/AC:L/Au:N/C:P/I:P/A:P
Affected Vendors & Products
Exploit & PoC Resources
POC AVAILABLEProof-of-concept code exists
Exploit-DB
Offensive Security exploit database
GitHub PoC Search
Community PoC repositories
Rapid7 / Metasploit
Metasploit module search
PacketStorm
Security advisories & exploits
NVD Detail
Official NIST entry
MITRE CVE
CVE Program entry
External links open in a new tab. Always verify in a controlled environment before use.
Official Patches & Advisories
All References (24)
→
http://www.idefense.com/advisory/03.04.03.txtExploit · Patch · Vendor Advisory
→
http://www.kb.cert.org/vuls/id/611865US Government Resource
→
http://www.securityfocus.com/bid/7008Patch · Vendor Advisory
Quick Facts
CVE IDCVE-2003-0102
CVSS Score4.6 / 10
SeverityMEDIUM
WeaknessNVD-CWE-Other
CISA KEVNo
ExploitPOC
Affected2 vendor(s)
PublishedMar 18, 2003
Related CVEs (NVD-CWE-Other)
Recommended Actions
- →Apply vendor patches immediately
- →Monitor CVE-2003-0102 in threat intel feeds
- →Review IDS/IPS signatures for exploitation attempts
Data sourced from NVD (NIST), CISA KEV, and EPSS (FIRST). Analysis generated by CTIWATCH.COM. CVE data is provided under the NVD usage policy.