CVE-2005-2952 in Subscribe Me Pro
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in s.pl in Subscribe Me Pro 2.044.09P and earlier allows remote attackers to read arbitrary files via a .. (dot dot) in the l parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/09/2025
The directory traversal vulnerability identified in CVE-2005-2952 affects the Subscribe Me Pro 2.044.09P and earlier versions, specifically within the s.pl script component. This flaw represents a classic path traversal attack vector that enables remote threat actors to access arbitrary files on the affected system. The vulnerability manifests through improper input validation in the l parameter of the s.pl script, which fails to adequately sanitize user-supplied data before processing file operations. The attack exploits the absence of proper path normalization and validation mechanisms, allowing attackers to manipulate file access requests through directory traversal sequences.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability leverages the .. (dot dot) sequence commonly used in file path manipulation to navigate up directory levels. When the s.pl script processes the l parameter without proper sanitization, it directly incorporates user input into file system operations, creating an opportunity for attackers to specify arbitrary file paths. This weakness aligns with CWE-22, which classifies directory traversal vulnerabilities as improper input validation that allows attackers to access files outside of intended directories. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and can be exploited through web-based interfaces, making it particularly dangerous as it requires no special privileges or authentication to exploit.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it could potentially enable attackers to access sensitive configuration files, database credentials, application source code, or other system resources. Remote attackers could leverage this weakness to gain unauthorized access to critical system components, potentially leading to full system compromise. The vulnerability affects the confidentiality and integrity of the affected system, as unauthorized file access could expose sensitive data or allow for further exploitation. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1083 (File and Directory Discovery) and T1566 (Phishing with Malicious Attachment) as attackers could use the discovered information to craft more sophisticated attacks or establish persistence.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2005-2952 should focus on implementing proper input validation and sanitization mechanisms within the s.pl script. The most effective approach involves implementing strict parameter validation that rejects or normalizes any input containing directory traversal sequences. Organizations should ensure that all user-supplied parameters are properly sanitized before being used in file system operations. Additionally, implementing proper access controls and privilege separation can limit the damage from successful exploitation attempts. The recommended solution includes updating to the patched version of Subscribe Me Pro, as vendors typically address such vulnerabilities through code modifications that validate and sanitize all file path parameters. Security measures should also include monitoring for suspicious file access patterns and implementing web application firewalls to detect and block malicious traversal attempts.