CVE-2010-1537 in phpCDB
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple directory traversal vulnerabilities in phpCDB 1.0 and earlier allow remote attackers to include and execute arbitrary local files via a .. (dot dot) in the lang_global parameter to (1) firstvisit.php, (2) newfolder.php, (3) showfolders.php, (4) newlang.php, (5) showinnerfolder.php, (6) writecode.php, and (7) showcode.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/07/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-1537 represents a critical directory traversal flaw affecting phpCDB version 1.0 and earlier. This security weakness stems from inadequate input validation within multiple script files that process user-supplied parameters. The vulnerability specifically manifests when the lang_global parameter is manipulated with .. (dot dot) sequences, enabling attackers to navigate outside the intended directory structure and access arbitrary local files on the server. The affected scripts include firstvisit.php, newfolder.php, showfolders.php, newlang.php, showinnerfolder.php, writecode.php, and showcode.php, demonstrating a widespread issue across the application's core functionality. This directory traversal vulnerability falls under CWE-22, which categorizes improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal attacks.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when user input containing directory traversal sequences is directly incorporated into file inclusion operations without proper sanitization or validation. Attackers can leverage this flaw to include and execute arbitrary local files on the target system, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The impact extends beyond simple file disclosure, as successful exploitation could enable attackers to execute malicious code, escalate privileges, or access sensitive system information. The vulnerability's widespread presence across multiple scripts within the phpCDB application indicates a fundamental design flaw in input handling and file access control mechanisms, making it particularly dangerous as it affects core application functionality rather than isolated components.
Operationally, this vulnerability presents significant risks to organizations using affected versions of phpCDB, as remote attackers can exploit it without authentication requirements. The potential for arbitrary code execution creates opportunities for attackers to establish persistent access, install backdoors, or conduct further reconnaissance within the compromised environment. The vulnerability's impact is amplified by the fact that it affects multiple entry points within the application, increasing the attack surface and providing attackers with multiple exploitation vectors. Organizations utilizing vulnerable versions face risks of data breaches, system compromise, and potential regulatory violations, particularly in environments where the application handles sensitive information or serves as a critical business component.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2010-1537 require immediate implementation of input validation and sanitization measures across all affected scripts. The most effective approach involves implementing strict parameter validation that rejects or removes directory traversal sequences from user input before processing. Organizations should also consider implementing proper access controls and file inclusion restrictions to prevent unauthorized file access. The application should be updated to a patched version that addresses the directory traversal vulnerability, as version 1.0 and earlier contain the flaw. Additionally, deploying web application firewalls and implementing security monitoring can help detect and prevent exploitation attempts. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and script injection, and T1566 for spearphishing attachments, as attackers may use this vulnerability to execute malicious payloads or establish persistence within target environments.