CVE-2003-0542

CVE-2003-0542 is a high-severity vulnerability in Apache Http Server with a CVSS 2.0 base score of 7.2. Its EPSS exploit-prediction score of 13% places it in the 96th percentile, indicating an elevated likelihood of exploitation. The underlying weakness is classified as CWE-119.

Key facts

Description

Multiple stack-based buffer overflows in (1) mod_alias and (2) mod_rewrite for Apache before 1.3.29 allow attackers to create configuration files to cause a denial of service (crash) or execute arbitrary code via a regular expression with more than 9 captures.

Frequently asked questions

What is CVE-2003-0542?
Multiple stack-based buffer overflows in (1) mod_alias and (2) mod_rewrite for Apache before 1.3.29 allow attackers to create configuration files to cause a denial of service (crash) or execute arbitrary code via a regular expression with more than 9 captures.
How severe is CVE-2003-0542?
CVE-2003-0542 has a CVSS 2.0 base score of 7.2, rated high severity.
Is CVE-2003-0542 being actively exploited?
It is not currently listed in CISA's KEV catalog. Its EPSS exploit-prediction score is 13% (96th percentile), an estimate of the probability of exploitation in the next 30 days.
What products are affected by CVE-2003-0542?
CVE-2003-0542 primarily affects Apache Http Server. In total, 36 product configurations (CPEs) are listed as vulnerable; see the affected-products list for the exact versions.
How do I fix CVE-2003-0542?
Review the linked vendor and NVD advisories for patched versions and mitigations, then upgrade or apply the recommended workaround. Given its high severity, prioritise patching exposed systems.
When was CVE-2003-0542 published?
CVE-2003-0542 was published on 2003-11-03 and last updated on 2026-06-16.

References

Affected products (36)

More vulnerabilities in Apache Http Server

All CVEs affecting Apache Http Server →

Other CWE-119 (Improper Restriction of Operations within the Bounds of a Memory Buffer) vulnerabilities

Browse all CWE-119 (Improper Restriction of Operations within the Bounds of a Memory Buffer) vulnerabilities →