CVE-2010-2005 in DataLife Engine
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple PHP remote file inclusion vulnerabilities in DataLife Engine (DLE) 8.3 allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in (1) the selected_language parameter to engine/inc/include/init.php, (2) the config[langs] parameter to engine/inc/help.php, (3) the config[lang] parameter to engine/ajax/pm.php, (4) and the _REQUEST[skin] parameter to engine/ajax/addcomments.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/03/2025
The CVE-2010-2005 vulnerability represents a critical remote code execution flaw affecting DataLife Engine version 8.3, a popular content management system used by numerous websites. This vulnerability stems from improper input validation and sanitization within multiple script files that process user-supplied parameters without adequate security measures. The flaw allows attackers to inject malicious URLs that are then executed as PHP code on the target server, potentially leading to complete system compromise and unauthorized access to sensitive data.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs through four distinct entry points within the DataLife Engine framework. The first vulnerability exists in engine/inc/include/init.php where the selected_language parameter fails to validate incoming URLs, allowing remote attackers to specify arbitrary PHP scripts that get included and executed. Similarly, engine/inc/help.php contains a vulnerable config[langs] parameter that accepts user input without proper sanitization, while engine/ajax/pm.php exposes the config[lang] parameter to the same risk. The fourth vector appears in engine/ajax/addcomments.php where the _REQUEST[skin] parameter lacks adequate validation, creating a consistent pattern of insecure parameter handling throughout the application's codebase.
This vulnerability directly maps to CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of argument delimiters in a command or injection attack, and CWE-94, which covers the execution of arbitrary code or commands. The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with complete control over the affected server environment. Successful exploitation can result in data theft, website defacement, installation of backdoors, and use of the compromised server for further attacks against other systems. The vulnerability's remote nature means that attackers can exploit it without requiring physical access or prior authentication, making it particularly dangerous for web applications.
From an attack framework perspective, this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190, which involves exploiting vulnerabilities in web applications to gain unauthorized access. The attack chain typically begins with reconnaissance to identify vulnerable DataLife Engine installations, followed by exploitation of the remote file inclusion vectors to establish initial access. Once compromised, attackers can leverage the system as a foothold for lateral movement within networks, data exfiltration, or as a command and control server for additional malicious activities. The widespread use of DataLife Engine in the web hosting industry amplifies the potential impact of this vulnerability, as it affects numerous websites that may not have proper security monitoring in place.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2010-2005 require immediate patching of the affected DataLife Engine version 8.3, as no official patches exist for this specific vulnerability. Organizations should implement input validation at multiple levels, including parameter sanitization, URL validation, and content filtering to prevent malicious URLs from being processed. Network-level protections such as web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can help detect and block exploitation attempts. Additionally, regular security audits, proper configuration management, and maintaining updated security patches are essential practices to prevent similar vulnerabilities from occurring in the future. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of secure coding practices and input validation in preventing remote code execution attacks that can lead to complete system compromise.