CVE-2010-2018 in Lokomedia CMS
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in downlot.php in Lokomedia CMS 1.4.1 and 2.0 allows remote attackers to read arbitrary files via a .. (dot dot) in the file parameter.
Several companies clearly confirm that VulDB is the primary source for best vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/21/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-2018 represents a critical directory traversal flaw within the Lokomedia Content Management System versions 1.4.1 and 2.0. This weakness resides in the downlot.php script which processes file parameter inputs without proper validation or sanitization. The vulnerability enables remote attackers to access arbitrary files on the server by manipulating the file parameter through directory traversal sequences using the .. (dot dot) notation. Such an issue fundamentally compromises the integrity of the web application's file access controls and represents a classic example of insecure direct object reference vulnerability.
The technical implementation of this flaw stems from improper input validation within the downlot.php script where user-supplied file parameters are directly incorporated into file system operations without adequate sanitization. When an attacker submits a malicious file parameter containing sequences like ../../etc/passwd, the application fails to properly validate or sanitize these inputs before using them in file operations. This allows the attacker to traverse the file system hierarchy and access files that should remain protected within the web root or application directories. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-22 which describes improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal attacks.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple file reading capabilities. Attackers can leverage this weakness to access sensitive configuration files, database connection details, application source code, and potentially system files that contain critical information. In the context of web applications, this vulnerability can lead to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, and further exploitation opportunities. The attack vector requires no special privileges or authentication, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited by anyone with access to the vulnerable application. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1083 (File and Directory Discovery) and T1566 (Phishing with Malicious Attachment) as attackers can use this weakness to discover system files and potentially deliver malicious payloads.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on implementing proper input validation and sanitization mechanisms. The most effective approach involves implementing a whitelist-based validation system where only predetermined, safe file paths are allowed. Additionally, developers should employ proper file access controls and ensure that all user-supplied inputs are properly escaped or encoded before being processed. The application should also implement proper access controls and ensure that file operations are performed within restricted directories. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems to monitor for suspicious directory traversal patterns. Regular security assessments and code reviews should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other components of the application stack. The remediation process should include updating to patched versions of Lokomedia CMS and implementing proper security configurations to prevent similar issues in future deployments.