CVE-2010-3688 in WebSiteAdmin
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in ADMIN/login.php in NetArtMEDIA WebSiteAdmin allows remote emote attackers to include and execute arbitrary local files via directory traversal sequences in the lng parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/06/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-3688 represents a critical directory traversal flaw within the NetArtMEDIA WebSiteAdmin administrative interface. This security weakness exists in the ADMIN/login.php script where the application fails to properly validate user-supplied input parameters. The specific vulnerability manifests when the lng parameter is processed without adequate sanitization, allowing malicious actors to manipulate file inclusion paths through carefully crafted directory traversal sequences. This flaw falls under the 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 technical exploitation of this vulnerability enables remote attackers to include and execute arbitrary local files on the target server by leveraging directory traversal sequences such as ../ or ..\ in the lng parameter. When the web application processes these malicious inputs, it inadvertently allows the inclusion of files from unintended directories, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution. The attacker can leverage this weakness to access sensitive system files, execute malicious code, or escalate privileges within the compromised system. This vulnerability directly violates the principle of least privilege and demonstrates a fundamental lack of input validation and output encoding in the application's security architecture. The flaw operates at the application layer and can be classified under the ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter, specifically focusing on the execution of arbitrary code through file inclusion mechanisms.
The operational impact of CVE-2010-3688 extends beyond simple data theft, as it provides attackers with potential full system compromise capabilities. Successful exploitation could result in unauthorized access to administrative functions, data exfiltration, system reconnaissance, and persistent backdoor installation. Organizations running affected versions of NetArtMEDIA WebSiteAdmin face significant risk of unauthorized system access, data breaches, and potential lateral movement within their network infrastructure. The vulnerability's remote exploitability means that attackers do not require physical access to the system or network, making it particularly dangerous for internet-facing web applications. This flaw can be exploited by attackers using automated tools, potentially leading to widespread compromise of multiple systems if the vulnerability exists across various installations.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2010-3688 should prioritize immediate patching of the affected application to address the directory traversal vulnerability. Organizations should implement proper input validation and sanitization for all user-supplied parameters, particularly those used in file inclusion operations. The implementation of a whitelist-based approach for language parameter handling, where only pre-approved language codes are accepted, provides a robust defense against malicious input. Additionally, proper file access controls and the principle of least privilege should be enforced to limit the damage potential even if exploitation occurs. System administrators should conduct comprehensive security assessments to identify similar vulnerabilities in other applications and implement secure coding practices that prevent directory traversal attacks. Network segmentation and intrusion detection systems can provide additional layers of defense, while regular security updates and vulnerability scanning should be maintained to prevent future exploitation attempts. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of input validation and secure file handling practices in web application development, aligning with security standards such as OWASP Top Ten and NIST cybersecurity guidelines.