CVE-2010-20103: ProFTPD 1.3.3c Backdoor Command Execution

Published Aug 20, 2025
·
Updated

A malicious backdoor was embedded in the official ProFTPD 1.3.3c source tarball distributed between November 28 and December 2, 2010. The backdoor implements a hidden FTP command trigger that, when invoked, causes the server to execute arbitrary shell commands with root privileges. This allows remote, unauthenticated attackers to run any OS command on the FTP server host.

Affected Software

2 affected components
ProFTPD ProFTPD>=1.3.3c<=1.3.3c
ProFTPD ProFTPD=1.3.3-c

Event History

Aug 20, 2025
CVE Published
via MITRE·03:38 PM
Data Sourced
via MITRE·03:38 PM
DescriptionWeakness
Data Sourced
via NVD·04:15 PM
DescriptionSeverityWeaknessAffected Software
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Frequently Asked Questions

1

What is the severity of CVE-2010-20103?

CVE-2010-20103 is considered a critical vulnerability due to the potential for arbitrary command execution with root privileges.

2

How do I fix CVE-2010-20103?

To fix CVE-2010-20103, upgrade to a secure version of ProFTPD that is not affected by this vulnerability.

3

What versions of ProFTPD are affected by CVE-2010-20103?

ProFTPD version 1.3.3c distributed between November 28 and December 2, 2010, is affected by CVE-2010-20103.

4

What does the backdoor in CVE-2010-20103 allow an attacker to do?

The backdoor allows an attacker to execute arbitrary shell commands with root privileges on the affected server.

5

How was the backdoor in CVE-2010-20103 introduced?

The backdoor was embedded in the official ProFTPD 1.3.3c source tarball during its distribution.

Contact

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