CVE-2005-4211 in phpCOIN
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in coin_includes/db.php in phpCOIN 1.2.2 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the $_CCFG[_PKG_PATH_DBSE] variable.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/29/2025
The vulnerability described in CVE-2005-4211 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw within the phpCOIN 1.2.2 content management system that exposes organizations to arbitrary code execution risks. This vulnerability specifically targets the coin_includes/db.php file where the application fails to properly validate or sanitize user-supplied input before incorporating it into file inclusion operations. The flaw occurs when the $_CCFG[_PKG_PATH_DBSE] variable receives a URL value that is then processed through a remote file inclusion mechanism, allowing attackers to inject malicious PHP code that gets executed on the target server.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an expression, specifically in the context of remote file inclusion attacks. The vulnerability exploits the lack of input validation in the phpCOIN application's database configuration handling, where the application directly uses user-controllable variables in file inclusion operations without proper sanitization or verification. This creates a pathway for attackers to manipulate the application's behavior by injecting URLs that point to malicious remote resources containing attacker-controlled PHP code.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents severe implications for system security and data integrity. Attackers can leverage this flaw to execute arbitrary code on the target server, potentially gaining full control over the web application environment. The impact extends beyond immediate code execution to include potential data breaches, system compromise, and lateral movement within network environments. The vulnerability affects not only the targeted phpCOIN application but also poses risks to the entire server infrastructure, as successful exploitation can lead to complete system compromise and unauthorized access to sensitive data stored within the application's database.
The attack vector for this vulnerability follows patterns consistent with ATT&CK technique T1190, which involves using vulnerabilities in remote services to gain initial access to target systems. Attackers typically construct malicious URLs that contain PHP code or references to malicious payloads, then inject these URLs through the vulnerable $_CCFG[_PKG_PATH_DBSE] variable. This approach allows for persistent access and can be combined with other exploitation techniques to establish backdoors, exfiltrate data, or deploy additional malware. The vulnerability's impact is amplified by the fact that it requires no authentication and can be exploited from any remote location with access to the vulnerable application's interface.
Organizations should implement multiple layers of defense to mitigate this vulnerability, including immediate patching of the phpCOIN application to version 1.2.3 or later where the vulnerability has been addressed. Network-based mitigations should include firewall rules that restrict access to the vulnerable application's configuration files and implement web application firewalls to detect and block malicious URL patterns. Input validation measures must be enforced at all application entry points, particularly where user-supplied data is processed for file inclusion operations. Additionally, system administrators should conduct comprehensive security audits of all installed web applications to identify similar vulnerabilities and implement proper secure coding practices that prevent the use of user-controllable variables in critical system operations. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of input validation and the potential consequences of failing to properly sanitize user-supplied data in web applications.