CVE-2010-1003 in eFront
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in www/editor/tiny_mce/langs/language.php in eFront 3.5.x through 3.5.5 allows remote attackers to include and execute arbitrary local files via a .. (dot dot) in the langname parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/03/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-1003 represents a critical directory traversal flaw within the eFront learning management system version 3.5.x through 3.5.5. This security weakness resides in the www/editor/tiny_mce/langs/language.php component where the application fails to properly validate user input parameters. The vulnerability specifically affects the langname parameter which is used to determine which language file to include and execute within the system. When an attacker submits a malicious payload containing .. (dot dot) sequences in the langname parameter, the application processes these sequences without adequate sanitization, allowing unauthorized access to arbitrary local files on the server.
This directory traversal vulnerability operates under the Common Weakness Enumeration classification of CWE-22, which specifically addresses improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal attacks. The flaw enables attackers to manipulate the file inclusion mechanism by exploiting the lack of input validation in the language selection process. The tiny_mce editor component, which is a widely used rich text editor, becomes a vector for exploitation when it fails to properly sanitize the language parameter before passing it to the include or require functions. This allows an attacker to traverse the file system hierarchy and access files that should remain protected, potentially including system configuration files, database credentials, or other sensitive information.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted, as it provides remote attackers with the capability to execute arbitrary code on the affected server. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to gain unauthorized access to the system, potentially escalating privileges and establishing persistent access. The attack surface is particularly concerning because it affects the core language handling functionality of the editor component, which is likely used across multiple user sessions and administrative functions. This vulnerability can be exploited without authentication, making it particularly dangerous as it allows any remote user to potentially compromise the entire system. The exploitation chain typically involves crafting a malicious request that includes directory traversal sequences followed by the inclusion of sensitive files, which can result in complete system compromise according to the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the technique of "Path Traversal".
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2010-1003 should focus on immediate input validation and sanitization of all user-supplied parameters, particularly those used in file inclusion operations. The most effective immediate fix involves implementing strict validation of the langname parameter to reject any input containing directory traversal sequences or special characters that could be used to manipulate file paths. Organizations should also implement proper access controls and file permissions to limit what files can be accessed through the application. The fix should include a comprehensive review of all file inclusion operations within the application to ensure that similar vulnerabilities do not exist in other components. Additionally, implementing a whitelist approach for language selection rather than allowing arbitrary input would provide a more robust defense against such attacks. Regular security audits and input validation testing should be conducted to prevent similar issues from emerging in future versions of the software. The vulnerability underscores the importance of proper parameter validation and secure coding practices, particularly when dealing with file system operations and user-supplied data.