CVE-2010-1979 in Com Datafeeds
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in the Affiliate Datafeeds (com_datafeeds) component build 880 for Joomla! allows remote attackers to read arbitrary files via a .. (dot dot) in the controller parameter to index.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/04/2025
The vulnerability described in CVE-2010-1979 represents a critical directory traversal flaw within the Affiliate Datafeeds component for Joomla! version 880. This security weakness resides in the component's handling of user input through the controller parameter in the index.php script, creating an opportunity for malicious actors to access sensitive files on the web server. The issue stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization mechanisms that fail to properly restrict file path manipulation attempts, allowing attackers to navigate beyond the intended directory structure.
This directory traversal vulnerability operates by exploiting the component's failure to properly validate and sanitize the controller parameter value before processing file operations. When a malicious user submits a request containing directory traversal sequences such as .. or ..%2f, the application processes these sequences without proper restrictions, enabling access to files outside the intended web root directory. The flaw specifically affects the Affiliate Datafeeds component, which is a third-party extension for the Joomla platforms.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it provides attackers with the capability to read arbitrary files on the target system. This includes potentially sensitive configuration files, database credentials, user authentication data, and other confidential information stored within the web server's file system. Attackers can exploit this weakness to gain unauthorized access to system resources, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The vulnerability affects the integrity and confidentiality of data stored on the affected Joomla! installations, creating risks for both the organization and its users.
Security practitioners should consider this vulnerability in the context of CWE-22, which specifically addresses improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal attacks. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this type of vulnerability under the T1083 technique for File and Directory Discovery, as attackers can leverage such flaws to enumerate and access sensitive files. Additionally, this vulnerability aligns with the broader category of input validation flaws that represent one of the most common attack vectors in web applications. Organizations should implement comprehensive input validation measures, including strict parameter validation, proper file access controls, and regular security assessments to prevent exploitation of similar vulnerabilities.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2010-1979 include immediate patching of the affected Joomla installations should consider upgrading to supported versions that include enhanced security features and regular security updates to prevent exploitation of known vulnerabilities.