CVE-2002-0653: Off-by-one buffer overflow in the ssl_compat_directive function, as called by the rewrite_command hook for...

Security readout for executives and security teams

This is an old mod_ssl flaw where a user who can place or edit .htaccess files may be able to make Apache run code as the Apache server user. It is not described as a remote unauthenticated issue in the provided sources. The business risk is highest for legacy shared-hosting or multi-user systems still running affected mod_ssl builds. Exposure appears limited to legacy Apache deployments using mod_ssl 2.8.9 or earlier where local or hosted users can create or modify .htaccess files. The source bundle does not provide CPEs, CVSS, or a complete vendor product matrix. Prioritize if the organization still operates legacy Apache/mod_ssl systems, especially shared-hosting or multi-user web servers. Modern fully patched environments are less likely to be affected, but the age of the flaw makes unsupported systems the main concern. Mitigation focus: Apply the relevant vendor security update for the installed operating system package.; Upgrade away from mod_ssl 2.8.9 or earlier where present.; Review vendor advisories for backported fixed package versions..

Prepared

Jun 30, 2026, 12:52 UTC (UTC+00:00)

Generated from the cited source records. This long-tail analysis has not been individually reviewed by a named human.