CVE-2010-3742 in Free Simple CMS
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple PHP remote file inclusion vulnerabilities in themes/default/index.php in Free Simple CMS 1.0 allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the (1) meta or (2) phpincdir parameter, a different issue than CVE-2010-3307.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/25/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-3742 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw within the Free Simple CMS 1.0 content management system. This vulnerability exists in the themes/default/index.php file and affects the application's handling of user-supplied input parameters. The flaw allows remote attackers to inject malicious URLs into specific parameters, enabling them to execute arbitrary PHP code on the target server. The vulnerability specifically impacts two distinct parameter names: meta and phpincdir, which are processed without adequate input validation or sanitization measures.
This vulnerability falls under the CWE-88 category of Improper Neutralization of Argument Delimiters in a Command, which is a subset of the broader CWE-94 category for Code Injection. The flaw represents a classic remote code execution vulnerability that can be exploited through the manipulation of web application input parameters. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it allows attackers to bypass normal access controls and directly execute malicious code on the server, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The attack vector leverages the application's failure to properly validate and sanitize user input before incorporating it into file inclusion operations.
The operational impact of CVE-2010-3742 is severe and multifaceted. Successful exploitation enables attackers to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the web server process, potentially leading to full system compromise. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to upload and execute malware, establish persistent backdoors, steal sensitive data, or use the compromised server as a launching point for attacks against other systems. The vulnerability affects the availability, integrity, and confidentiality of the affected system, as it provides unauthorized access to critical system resources. Additionally, the vulnerability can be exploited through automated scanning tools, making it particularly dangerous in environments with multiple exposed web applications.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should include immediate patching of the Free Simple CMS 1.0 application to the latest version that addresses this specific flaw. System administrators should implement proper input validation and sanitization measures to prevent user-supplied data from being processed as file paths or URLs. The principle of least privilege should be enforced by running web applications with minimal required permissions and implementing proper access controls. Network-level defenses such as web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can provide additional protection against exploitation attempts. Regular security audits and vulnerability assessments should be conducted to identify similar issues in other applications. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of following secure coding practices, including parameterized queries and proper input validation, as outlined in the OWASP Top Ten and NIST cybersecurity guidelines. Organizations should also implement monitoring and logging mechanisms to detect suspicious file inclusion patterns and unauthorized code execution attempts.