CVE-2010-3456 in Simple Download
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in download.php in EnergyScripts (ES) Simple Download 1.0 allows remote attackers to read arbitrary files via a .. (dot dot) in the file parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/20/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-3456 represents a critical directory traversal flaw in the EnergyScripts Simple Download 1.0 software package. This issue exists within the download.php script where input validation is insufficient to prevent attackers from manipulating file paths through the file parameter. The vulnerability allows remote attackers to access files outside the intended directory structure by utilizing directory traversal sequences such as .. to navigate upward in the file system hierarchy.
This type of vulnerability falls under the Common Weakness Enumeration category CWE-22, which specifically addresses improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal. The flaw enables attackers to bypass normal access controls and potentially gain access to sensitive system files, configuration data, or other restricted resources that should not be accessible through the web interface. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can be exploited remotely without requiring authentication, making it an attractive target for malicious actors seeking to compromise the affected system.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file access, as it can lead to complete system compromise when combined with other exploitation techniques. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to read system configuration files, database credentials, application source code, or other sensitive information that may reveal additional attack vectors. The vulnerability also poses risks to data integrity and confidentiality, as unauthorized access to system files can result in data leakage, modification of critical components, or the potential for privilege escalation within the affected environment. Organizations running this vulnerable software may experience unauthorized data access, system integrity violations, and potential compliance violations depending on the nature of the accessed data.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2010-3456 should focus on implementing proper input validation and sanitization mechanisms within the download.php script. The most effective approach involves implementing strict validation of all user-supplied input, particularly the file parameter, to prevent directory traversal sequences from being processed. Organizations should employ absolute path validation techniques that ensure all file access operations occur within predetermined safe directories. Additionally, implementing proper access controls and privilege separation can limit the damage that can be caused by successful exploitation attempts. Security measures should include disabling unnecessary file access functions, implementing proper logging of file access attempts, and conducting regular security audits of web applications. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of keeping software components up to date, as EnergyScripts Simple Download 1.0 appears to be an outdated version that may contain other unpatched vulnerabilities. Organizations should consider implementing web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems to monitor for exploitation attempts targeting this type of vulnerability. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1083 (File and Directory Discovery) and T1566 (Phishing with Malicious Attachments) techniques, emphasizing the need for comprehensive security controls that address both the exploitation vector and potential post-exploitation activities.