CVE-2010-3203 in Com Picsell
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in the PicSell (com_picsell) component 1.0 for Joomla! allows remote attackers to read arbitrary files via a .. (dot dot) in the dflink parameter in a prevsell dwnfree action to index.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/23/2025
The CVE-2010-3203 vulnerability represents a critical directory traversal flaw within the PicSell component version 1.0 for Joomla! platforms. This security weakness specifically targets the component's handling of user input in the dflink parameter during the prevsell dwnfree action. The vulnerability arises from inadequate input validation and sanitization mechanisms that fail to properly restrict file path access, allowing malicious actors to exploit the system's file handling capabilities through crafted directory traversal sequences.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability leverages the standard .. (dot dot) traversal sequences that are commonly used to navigate up directory levels in file systems. When an attacker submits a malicious dflink parameter containing these traversal sequences to the index.php endpoint, the PicSell component processes the input without proper validation, enabling unauthorized access to files outside the intended directory structure. This flaw fundamentally violates the principle of least privilege and demonstrates poor input sanitization practices that are classified under CWE-22, which specifically addresses directory traversal vulnerabilities.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file reading capabilities, as it provides attackers with the potential to access sensitive system files, configuration data, and potentially even database credentials stored within the Joomla installations running the vulnerable PicSell component version 1.0, making it particularly dangerous given the widespread adoption of Joomla! as a content management system.
Security professionals should note that this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1213.002, which involves accessing data through web application vulnerabilities. The attack vector requires minimal technical expertise, as it relies on standard directory traversal techniques that have been well-documented in cybersecurity literature. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including input validation, proper parameter sanitization, and the removal or updating of vulnerable components. Additionally, the vulnerability demonstrates the importance of secure coding practices and input validation as outlined in OWASP Top 10 categories related to injection flaws and sensitive data exposure.
The exploitation of this vulnerability underscores the critical need for regular security audits and component updates within content management systems. The PicSell component's failure to implement proper access controls and input validation represents a fundamental security flaw that could be easily remediated through proper code review processes and adherence to secure coding standards. Organizations should prioritize patching this vulnerability and implementing comprehensive input validation across all web application components to prevent similar issues from occurring in their systems.