CVE-2010-0680 in ZeusCMS
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in index.php in ZeusCMS 0.2 allows remote attackers to include and execute arbitrary local files via directory traversal sequences in the page parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/01/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-0680 represents a critical directory traversal flaw in ZeusCMS version 0.2 that exposes the system to remote code execution attacks. This weakness resides in the index.php script where the page parameter fails to properly validate or sanitize user input, creating an exploitable path traversal condition that allows attackers to access arbitrary local files on the server. The vulnerability specifically affects the content delivery mechanism of the CMS, where the page parameter is directly used to determine which file should be included and executed, without adequate input filtering or access control measures.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-22, which defines improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal attacks. Attackers can exploit this weakness by crafting malicious URLs containing directory traversal sequences such as ../ or ..\ that bypass normal file access controls. When the vulnerable application processes these sequences, it allows the inclusion of files from unexpected locations on the filesystem, potentially enabling access to sensitive configuration files, database credentials, or system files that should remain protected from public access. This type of vulnerability typically occurs when applications dynamically construct file paths based on user-supplied input without proper validation or sanitization mechanisms.
The operational impact of CVE-2010-0680 extends beyond simple information disclosure to encompass full remote code execution capabilities when combined with other attack vectors. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can potentially execute arbitrary code on the target system, leading to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, or service disruption. The vulnerability affects the core functionality of ZeusCMS 0.2, making it a prime target for automated exploitation tools that scan for common CMS vulnerabilities. This weakness particularly impacts web applications that rely on dynamic content inclusion mechanisms, where user input directly influences file access operations.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on implementing proper input validation and sanitization measures that prevent directory traversal sequences from being processed. The recommended approach involves filtering user-supplied input to remove or encode potentially dangerous characters such as .., /, and \ that could be used to traverse directories. Additionally, implementing a whitelist approach that only allows specific, pre-approved file paths can effectively prevent unauthorized file access. Security controls should also include proper access control mechanisms that restrict file inclusion to legitimate application components only. Organizations should consider implementing web application firewalls and input validation rules that specifically target path traversal patterns as part of their defense-in-depth strategy. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of secure coding practices and input validation in preventing remote code execution attacks that can lead to complete system compromise.
The attack pattern associated with CVE-2010-0680 maps to several ATT&CK techniques including T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter and T1566.001 for spearphishing attachment, as attackers often leverage directory traversal vulnerabilities to gain initial access and establish persistence. The vulnerability's exploitation typically follows a reconnaissance phase where attackers identify vulnerable CMS installations, followed by exploitation using crafted traversal sequences to access sensitive files or execute malicious code. This type of vulnerability is particularly concerning in environments where multiple web applications share the same server infrastructure, as a successful compromise of one application can potentially provide attackers with access to resources beyond the initially targeted system.