CVE-2010-1718 in Com Archeryscores
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in archeryscores.php in the Archery Scores (com_archeryscores) component 1.0.6 for Joomla! allows remote attackers to include and execute arbitrary local files via a .. (dot dot) in the controller parameter to index.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/05/2025
The CVE-2010-1718 vulnerability represents a critical directory traversal flaw within the Archery Scores component for Joomla! version 1.0.6, specifically affecting the archeryscores.php script. This vulnerability exposes the application to remote code execution attacks through improper input validation mechanisms. The flaw exists in how the application processes the controller parameter within the index.php file, allowing malicious actors to manipulate file paths through directory traversal sequences using the .. (dot dot) notation. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-22, which details improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal attacks. Such vulnerabilities are particularly dangerous because they can enable attackers to access arbitrary files on the server, potentially leading to complete system compromise.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker crafts a malicious request containing directory traversal sequences in the controller parameter. When the Joomla! application processes this parameter without adequate sanitization, it allows the attacker to navigate outside the intended directory structure and access local files that should remain protected. This can include sensitive configuration files, database credentials, or even system files that could be executed as code. The vulnerability specifically targets the component's file inclusion mechanism, where the controller parameter is directly used to determine which file to include and execute. This design flaw creates a direct path for attackers to bypass normal access controls and execute arbitrary code on the target system. The attack vector aligns with ATT&CK technique T1505.003 for server-side include attacks, where adversaries leverage insecure file inclusion practices to execute malicious code.
The operational impact of CVE-2010-1718 extends beyond simple file access, as successful exploitation can result in complete system compromise and persistent access for attackers. Organizations running vulnerable versions of the Archery Scores component face significant risks including data exfiltration, system takeover, and potential lateral movement within their network infrastructure. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it affects a widely used content management system, and the attack requires minimal sophistication to execute successfully. Once exploited, attackers can potentially establish backdoors, modify website content, steal sensitive data, or use the compromised system as a launching point for further attacks against other network resources. The vulnerability also demonstrates poor input validation practices that are common in legacy web applications, making it a prime example of how insufficient security controls in web applications can lead to catastrophic consequences.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2010-1718 should focus on immediate patching of the affected Joomla! component to version 1.0.7 or later, which contains the necessary security fixes. Organizations should implement robust input validation measures that sanitize all user-supplied parameters, particularly those used in file inclusion operations. The implementation of a whitelist approach for controller parameters, where only predefined valid values are accepted, provides an effective defense mechanism against this type of attack. Additionally, web application firewalls should be configured to detect and block suspicious directory traversal patterns in URL parameters. System administrators should also consider implementing proper file permissions and access controls to limit the impact of potential exploitation, ensuring that sensitive files are not accessible through web root directories. Regular security audits and vulnerability assessments should be conducted to identify similar flaws in other components and applications within the organization's infrastructure. The remediation process should also include monitoring for any signs of exploitation attempts and implementing proper logging mechanisms to track access patterns that may indicate attempted attacks against the vulnerable component.