CVE-2010-3480 in PHP MicroCMS
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in index.php in ApPHP PHP MicroCMS 1.0.1, when magic_quotes_gpc is disabled, allows remote attackers to include and execute arbitrary local files via a .. (dot dot) in the page parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/30/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-3480 represents a critical directory traversal flaw in the ApPHP PHP MicroCMS version 1.0.1 web application. This issue specifically affects the index.php file and exploits a fundamental security weakness in how the application handles user input parameters. The vulnerability becomes particularly dangerous when the PHP configuration has magic_quotes_gpc disabled, which removes a crucial built-in protection mechanism that would normally escape special characters in GET, POST, and COOKIE data. The flaw stems from improper input validation and sanitization of the page parameter, allowing malicious actors to manipulate file inclusion paths through directory traversal sequences.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability leverages the .. (dot dot) sequence to navigate upward through the directory structure, enabling attackers to access files outside the intended web root directory. When magic_quotes_gpc is disabled, the application fails to properly sanitize the page parameter, allowing the attacker to inject malicious directory traversal sequences that bypass normal file access controls. This creates a path traversal condition where arbitrary local files can be included and executed, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and can be exploited through HTTP requests that manipulate the page parameter to reference files such as configuration files, database credentials, or system files.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability poses significant risks to organizations using the affected ApPHP MicroCMS version. Attackers can leverage this flaw to execute arbitrary code on the web server, potentially gaining unauthorized access to sensitive data, modifying content, or establishing persistent backdoors. The impact extends beyond simple data theft as the vulnerability could enable attackers to escalate privileges, compromise other systems on the network, or use the compromised server as a launchpad for further attacks. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it requires minimal technical expertise to exploit and can be automated through various attack tools, making it a high-value target for both skilled and unskilled attackers. This weakness directly violates several security principles including least privilege, input validation, and secure coding practices.
The mitigation strategies for CVE-2010-3480 should focus on immediate remediation and long-term security improvements. Organizations must first update to a patched version of ApPHP MicroCMS or implement proper input validation and sanitization measures for the page parameter. The recommended approach includes implementing strict parameter validation that rejects or filters out directory traversal sequences, implementing proper access controls that prevent file inclusion from unauthorized paths, and ensuring that magic_quotes_gpc is properly configured or that alternative input sanitization mechanisms are in place. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls, input validation libraries, and regular security code reviews can help prevent similar vulnerabilities. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-22 Directory Traversal and CWE-74 Improper Neutralization of Special Elements in Output Used by a Downstream Component, and maps to ATT&CK techniques including T1059 Command and Scripting Interpreter and T1566 Phishing. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify and remediate similar issues in other web applications within the organization's infrastructure.