CVE-2010-2456 in Linker IMG
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple directory traversal vulnerabilities in index.php in Linker IMG 1.0 and earlier allow remote attackers to read and execute arbitrary local files via a URL in the (1) cook_lan cookie parameter ($lan_dir variable) or possibly (2) Sdb_type parameter. NOTE: this was originally reported as remote file inclusion, but this may be inaccurate.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/18/2025
The vulnerability described in CVE-2010-2456 represents a critical directory traversal flaw affecting Linker IMG version 1.0 and earlier. This security weakness stems from inadequate input validation within the index.php script, specifically in how the application processes user-supplied data through cookie parameters and database type specifications. The vulnerability allows remote attackers to manipulate the application's file handling mechanisms and access arbitrary local files on the server through crafted malicious requests.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs through two primary attack vectors involving the cook_lan cookie parameter and the Sdb_type parameter. When the cook_lan cookie parameter is manipulated, the application assigns its value to the $lan_dir variable without proper sanitization, enabling attackers to traverse directory structures and access sensitive files. Similarly, the Sdb_type parameter may be exploited to achieve comparable directory traversal effects, though this vector appears to be less well-defined. The vulnerability operates by exploiting the application's failure to properly validate and sanitize user input before using it in file system operations, creating a path traversal condition that allows attackers to bypass normal access controls.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted. Remote attackers can leverage this weakness to read arbitrary local files, potentially including configuration files, database credentials, application source code, and other sensitive information. The ability to execute arbitrary local files through this vulnerability could enable attackers to gain full control over the affected system, depending on the privileges of the web application process. This represents a significant threat to system confidentiality, integrity, and availability, as it allows unauthorized access to critical system resources that should remain protected from external access.
From a cybersecurity perspective, this vulnerability maps to CWE-22 Directory Traversal and CWE-23 Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory, both of which are fundamental weaknesses in file system access control. The attack pattern aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059 Command and Scripting Interpreter, as attackers can execute arbitrary code through file inclusion mechanisms. Additionally, this vulnerability demonstrates the importance of input validation and proper parameter sanitization in web applications, as highlighted in the OWASP Top Ten Project's emphasis on injection flaws. The original misclassification as remote file inclusion underscores the importance of thorough vulnerability analysis and proper categorization of security flaws.
The recommended mitigations for this vulnerability involve implementing robust input validation and sanitization mechanisms throughout the application. Developers should ensure that all user-supplied input is properly validated before being used in file system operations, with strict whitelisting of acceptable values and removal of dangerous characters such as '../' sequences. The application should implement proper path normalization and use of secure file handling functions that prevent directory traversal attacks. Additionally, the web application should be configured with minimal necessary privileges and access controls to limit the potential impact of successful exploitation. Regular security updates and patch management processes should be implemented to address similar vulnerabilities in third-party components and ensure overall system security posture remains strong.