CVE-1999-0402 is a vulnerability identified in GNU wget version 1.5.3, where the utility incorrectly handles symbolic links (symlinks) during permission changes. Specifically, when wget attempts to change file permissions, it follows symlinks and modifies the permissions of the target file rather than the symlink itself. This behavior can lead to unintended permission changes on files that the symlink points to, potentially exposing sensitive files or altering system configurations. Since wget is a widely used command-line tool for retrieving files via HTTP, HTTPS, and FTP protocols, this vulnerability could be exploited by an attacker who can influence the creation or placement of symlinks in directories where wget operates. The vulnerability does not require authentication and can be triggered remotely if the attacker can control the environment or files wget interacts with. The CVSS score of 5.0 (medium severity) reflects that the vulnerability impacts confidentiality (C:P) but not integrity or availability, with low attack complexity and no authentication required. No patch is available for this version, and there are no known exploits in the wild. Given the age of this vulnerability (published in 1999) and the specific affected version, modern wget versions have likely addressed this issue, but legacy systems running wget 1.5.3 remain at risk.

For European organizations, the impact of this vulnerability depends largely on the presence of legacy systems running wget 1.5.3. If such systems are used in automated scripts or processes that handle sensitive files or configurations, an attacker could exploit this vulnerability to escalate access or expose confidential information by manipulating symlinks. This could lead to unauthorized disclosure of sensitive data, especially in environments where wget is used to manage or deploy files in multi-user or shared systems. While the vulnerability does not directly affect system integrity or availability, the confidentiality breach could have regulatory implications under GDPR if personal or sensitive data is exposed. Additionally, organizations in sectors with strict compliance requirements (e.g., finance, healthcare) could face reputational damage and legal consequences. The lack of a patch means organizations must rely on mitigation strategies or upgrading to newer wget versions to eliminate the risk.

1. Upgrade wget to the latest stable version where this vulnerability is fixed. Avoid using wget 1.5.3 or other outdated versions. 2. Audit systems to identify any legacy environments or scripts that still use wget 1.5.3 and plan for their upgrade or replacement. 3. Restrict permissions and control the creation of symlinks in directories where wget operates to prevent attackers from placing malicious symlinks. 4. Implement file integrity monitoring to detect unauthorized permission changes on critical files. 5. Use containerization or sandboxing for processes running wget to limit the impact of potential exploitation. 6. Where upgrading is not immediately possible, consider replacing wget with alternative tools that do not exhibit this behavior or manually verify file permissions after wget operations. 7. Educate system administrators and developers about the risks of using outdated tools and the importance of secure file handling practices.