CVE-2010-0390 in Max's Image Uploader
Summary
by MITRE
Unrestricted file upload vulnerability in maxImageUpload/index.php in PHP F1 Max's Image Uploader 1.0, when Apache is not configured to handle the mime-type for files with pjpeg or jpeg extensions, allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code by uploading a file with a pjpeg or jpeg extension, then accessing it via a direct request to the file in original/. NOTE: some of these details are obtained from third party information.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/29/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-0390 represents a critical unrestricted file upload flaw within the PHP F1 Max Image Uploader 1.0 web application. This vulnerability specifically targets the maxImageUpload/index.php component and exploits a configuration weakness in Apache web servers that fail to properly validate mime-types for files bearing pjpeg or jpeg extensions. The flaw creates a dangerous attack vector where remote adversaries can bypass normal file validation mechanisms and execute malicious code through carefully crafted file uploads.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization within the image uploader application. When Apache server configuration does not properly handle mime-type detection for pjpeg or jpeg files, the system accepts uploads without adequate security checks. Attackers can exploit this by uploading malicious files with these specific extensions, which then get stored in the original/ directory. The vulnerability becomes exploitable when attackers can directly access these uploaded files through web requests, allowing them to execute arbitrary code on the target server.
This vulnerability directly maps to CWE-434, which describes unrestricted file upload or file type validation flaws in web applications. The operational impact of CVE-2010-0390 is severe, as it enables remote code execution capabilities that can lead to complete system compromise. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can gain unauthorized access to the web server, potentially leading to data breaches, service disruption, or further lateral movement within the network infrastructure. The vulnerability also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190, which covers exploiting vulnerabilities in web applications to achieve remote code execution.
The security implications extend beyond immediate code execution to encompass broader system compromise potential. Once an attacker gains code execution capability, they can establish persistent access, escalate privileges, or use the compromised server as a launch point for attacking other systems. The vulnerability's exploitation requires minimal technical skill, making it particularly dangerous as it can be leveraged by attackers with limited expertise. Organizations running this vulnerable software face significant risk of unauthorized access and potential data loss, especially if the web server has access to sensitive information or critical system resources. The flaw demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and the dangers of relying on server configuration alone for security enforcement rather than implementing robust application-level safeguards.
Mitigation strategies should focus on implementing comprehensive file validation mechanisms, including strict content type checking, filename sanitization, and proper file extension validation. Organizations must ensure that Apache servers properly handle mime-type detection and that uploaded files undergo thorough security screening before being stored or executed. The recommended approach involves implementing multiple layers of defense including web application firewalls, proper access controls, and regular security assessments to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities in web applications. Additionally, immediate patching or replacement of the vulnerable PHP F1 Max Image Uploader 1.0 component is essential to prevent exploitation attempts.