CVE-2010-3102 in 3D-FTP Client
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in SiteDesigner Technologies, Inc. 3D-FTP Client 9.0 build 2, and probably earlier versions, allows remote FTP servers to write arbitrary files via a "..\" (dot dot backslash) in a filename.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/06/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-3102 represents a critical directory traversal flaw within the 3D-FTP Client software produced by SiteDesigner Technologies, Inc. This security weakness exists specifically in version 9.0 build 2 and potentially affects earlier iterations of the application. The flaw manifests when the client processes filenames containing "..\" sequences, which are typically used in Unix-like systems to navigate up one directory level. However, in this context, the client fails to properly sanitize or validate these sequences, creating an opportunity for malicious remote FTP servers to manipulate the local file system through crafted file names.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation within the client's file handling mechanisms. When the 3D-FTP Client receives a file listing from a remote server containing filenames with "..\" sequences, the application does not properly interpret these path traversal characters. Instead of rejecting or properly resolving such paths, the client treats them as literal directory references, allowing attackers to specify arbitrary file paths on the local system. This flaw directly maps to CWE-22, which categorizes improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal vulnerabilities.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized file creation, as it enables attackers to potentially overwrite critical system files, install malicious software, or manipulate the client's operational environment. An attacker controlling a remote FTP server can exploit this weakness to write files to any location within the client's directory structure, potentially compromising the entire system. This vulnerability falls under the ATT&CK technique T1059, specifically focusing on command and scripting interpreter, as it allows for arbitrary file system manipulation that could lead to further exploitation. The attack vector requires a compromised FTP server, making it particularly dangerous in environments where users might unknowingly connect to malicious servers or where server compromise occurs through other means.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2010-3102 should prioritize immediate software updates from SiteDesigner Technologies, Inc., as the vendor likely released patches addressing this specific vulnerability. Organizations should implement network segmentation to limit access to FTP services and consider deploying network monitoring tools to detect suspicious file transfer activities. Additionally, users should be educated about the risks of connecting to untrusted FTP servers and should only establish connections to known, legitimate services. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation in client-side applications, particularly those handling network protocols, as it underscores how seemingly innocuous path traversal sequences can lead to significant system compromise. Security teams should also consider implementing file system access controls and monitoring for unauthorized file modifications as part of their defense-in-depth strategy.