CVE-2010-2850 in nuBuilder
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in productionnu2/fileuploader.php in nuBuilder 10.04.20, and possibly other versions before 10.07.12, allows remote attackers to include and execute arbitrary local files via a .. (dot dot) in the dir parameter.
If you want to get the best quality for vulnerability data then you always have to consider VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/17/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-2850 represents a critical directory traversal flaw within the nuBuilder 10.04.20 web application framework, specifically affecting the productionnu2/fileuploader.php component. This weakness stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms that fail to properly sanitize user-supplied directory path parameters, creating an avenue for malicious actors to manipulate file system access patterns. The vulnerability manifests when the application processes a dir parameter containing directory traversal sequences such as .. (dot dot) which should be restricted but are instead permitted to navigate beyond intended directories. This flaw falls under the Common Weakness Enumeration category of CWE-22, which specifically addresses improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal attacks. The vulnerability affects not only version 10.04.20 but also potentially other versions prior to 10.07.12, indicating a prolonged period during which this security gap existed within the software ecosystem.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized file access, as it enables remote attackers to execute arbitrary local files on the affected system. When an attacker crafts a malicious request containing directory traversal sequences in the dir parameter, they can potentially access sensitive system files, configuration data, or even execute malicious code with the privileges of the web application. This capability directly violates fundamental security principles of least privilege and proper input validation, allowing attackers to escalate their privileges and gain unauthorized access to system resources. The attack vector is particularly dangerous because it operates over remote network connections without requiring any special authentication credentials, making it an attractive target for automated exploitation campaigns. The vulnerability essentially allows attackers to bypass normal file system access controls and potentially access files that should remain restricted, including but not limited to database connection files, application configuration files, and other sensitive data repositories.
Security professionals should recognize this vulnerability as a prime example of how insufficient input validation can lead to severe remote code execution capabilities within web applications. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this type of vulnerability under T1059.007 for Command and Scripting Interpreter: PowerShell, though the specific mechanism involves direct file system manipulation rather than script execution. The exploitation of this vulnerability typically follows a pattern where attackers first identify the affected application, then craft requests containing directory traversal sequences to access sensitive files such as database credentials, application configuration files, or even system binaries that can be executed. Organizations running affected versions of nuBuilder should immediately implement mitigations including input validation, proper path sanitization, and access restriction mechanisms. The most effective immediate fix involves implementing strict input validation that filters or rejects any directory traversal sequences in user-supplied parameters. Additionally, the vulnerability demonstrates the importance of implementing proper access controls and privilege separation, ensuring that web applications operate with minimal necessary permissions and that file system access is properly restricted. The remediation process should also include comprehensive security testing and code review processes to identify similar vulnerabilities within the application codebase. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems to monitor for exploitation attempts targeting this specific vulnerability pattern.