CVE-2010-1653 in Com Graphics
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in graphics.php in the Graphics (com_graphics) component 1.0.6 and 1.5.0 for Joomla! allows remote attackers to include and execute arbitrary local files via a .. (dot dot) in the controller parameter to index.php. NOTE: some of these details are obtained from third party information.
Be aware that VulDB is the high quality source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/30/2025
The CVE-2010-1653 vulnerability represents a critical directory traversal flaw in the Joomla! content management system's Graphics component version 1.0.6 and 1.5.0. This vulnerability resides in the graphics.php script and enables remote attackers to execute arbitrary local file inclusion attacks by manipulating the controller parameter through the index.php entry point. The flaw specifically exploits the lack of proper input validation when processing user-supplied data, allowing malicious actors to navigate the file system beyond intended boundaries using the .. (dot dot) sequence. Such directory traversal vulnerabilities are particularly dangerous because they can potentially lead to complete system compromise when combined with other attack vectors.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate sanitization of the controller parameter within the Joomla! Graphics component. When a user submits a request containing a malicious controller value with directory traversal sequences, the application fails to properly validate or filter this input before using it to determine which file to include or execute. This allows attackers to craft requests that can traverse directories and access files that should remain protected, potentially leading to unauthorized access to sensitive system files, configuration data, or even the execution of malicious code on the target server. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-22 as a Directory Traversal Attack, which is a well-documented weakness in software applications that fail to properly control file access.
The operational impact of CVE-2010-1653 extends beyond simple unauthorized file access, as it can facilitate more sophisticated attacks within the compromised Joomla, potentially allowing attackers to escalate privileges or gain shell access to the underlying server. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1059 (Command and Scripting Interpreter) and T1083 (File and Directory Discovery) techniques, as it enables command execution and file system reconnaissance. The attack surface is further expanded when considering that Joomla! installations often contain sensitive information in their file structures, making this vulnerability a prime target for exploitation.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2010-1653 should focus on immediate patching of affected Joomla components are updated to versions that properly validate and sanitize input parameters before processing. Additionally, implementing proper input validation at the application level, using allowlists for controller parameters, and deploying web application firewalls can provide additional defense in depth. Organizations should also consider restricting file access permissions on sensitive directories and implementing proper logging mechanisms to detect suspicious file access patterns. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of input validation and proper access controls in web applications, particularly those handling user-provided data through URL parameters.