CVE-2010-0966 in deV!L`z Clanportal
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in inc/config.php in deV!L`z Clanportal (DZCP) 1.5.2, when register_globals is enabled, allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the basePath parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/02/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-0966 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw within the deV!L`z Clanportal version 1.5.2 web application. This issue specifically targets the configuration file inc/config.php which serves as the central point for application settings and initialization routines. The vulnerability arises from improper input validation and sanitization mechanisms that fail to properly restrict user-supplied data from being directly incorporated into file inclusion operations. When the vulnerable application operates with register_globals enabled, an attacker can manipulate the basePath parameter to inject malicious URLs that will be processed by the include statement, thereby enabling arbitrary code execution on the target server.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability leverages the fundamental security weakness present in PHP applications that do not properly validate or sanitize user inputs before using them in dynamic file inclusion contexts. The basePath parameter, when not properly validated, accepts external URL references that bypass normal security controls and allow attackers to load remote malicious scripts. This vulnerability directly maps to CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an expression, specifically in the context of command and directory traversal attacks. The flaw essentially creates a path traversal condition where attacker-controlled input can manipulate the include path to load unintended files from remote locations.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability presents a severe threat to system integrity and data security. Successful exploitation enables attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code with the privileges of the web server process, potentially leading to complete system compromise. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to install backdoors, exfiltrate sensitive data, modify application functionality, or use the compromised server as a launch point for further attacks within the network infrastructure. The vulnerability's exploitation is particularly dangerous because it requires only a single parameter manipulation to achieve remote code execution, making it highly attractive to automated attack tools and opportunistic threat actors.
The security implications extend beyond immediate code execution to encompass broader system compromise and data breach risks. Organizations running affected versions of deV!L`z Clanportal face significant exposure to unauthorized access and potential data loss. The vulnerability's presence in a widely used clan portal platform means that numerous websites could be simultaneously compromised, creating a substantial attack surface for threat actors. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1059.007 for remote code execution and T1190 for exploitation of remote services, demonstrating the multi-layered attack vectors that can be leveraged once the initial foothold is established. The attack chain typically involves reconnaissance, exploitation through parameter manipulation, and subsequent lateral movement within the compromised environment.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability must address both immediate remediation and long-term security hardening measures. The most effective immediate solution involves disabling register_globals in the PHP configuration, which eliminates one of the primary prerequisites for exploitation. Additionally, implementing proper input validation and sanitization mechanisms around the basePath parameter is essential to prevent malicious URL injection. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls to detect and block suspicious parameter values, and conduct thorough code reviews to identify similar vulnerabilities in other application components. The recommended approach includes updating to patched versions of deV!L`z Clanportal, implementing proper parameter validation, and establishing secure coding practices that prevent dynamic file inclusion with unsanitized user input. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify and remediate similar weaknesses across the entire application portfolio.