CVE-2006-2745 in Facile Interactive Web
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple PHP remote file inclusion vulnerabilities in F@cile Interactive Web 0.8.5 and earlier, when register_globals is enabled, allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the (1) pathfile parameter in (a) p-editpage.php and (b) p-editbox.php, and the (2) mytheme and (3) myskin parameters in multiple "p-themes" index.inc.php files including (c) lowgraphic, (d) classic, (e) puzzle, (f) simple, and (g) ciao.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/20/2025
The vulnerability described in CVE-2006-2745 represents a critical remote code execution flaw affecting F@cile Interactive Web versions 0.8.5 and earlier. This vulnerability stems from improper input validation and insecure parameter handling within the application's file inclusion mechanisms. The flaw specifically exploits the dangerous combination of register_globals enabled and unsanitized user input, creating a pathway for attackers to inject malicious PHP code through carefully crafted URLs. The vulnerability affects multiple entry points within the application's codebase, making it particularly dangerous as it provides multiple attack vectors for exploitation.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an OS command. The flaw occurs when the application accepts user-supplied parameters without proper sanitization and directly incorporates them into file inclusion operations. When register_globals is enabled, PHP automatically creates global variables from GET, POST, and cookie data, eliminating the need for explicit variable declaration. This behavior, combined with the lack of proper input validation, allows attackers to manipulate parameters such as pathfile, mytheme, and myskin to point to malicious remote files. The vulnerability specifically affects the p-editpage.php, p-editbox.php, and multiple p-themes index.inc.php files, creating a wide attack surface across different application modules.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and potentially catastrophic for affected systems. Attackers can execute arbitrary PHP code on the target server with the privileges of the web application, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The vulnerability enables attackers to upload and execute malicious payloads, establish backdoors, or perform further reconnaissance and lateral movement within the network. Given that the vulnerability affects multiple file inclusion points, an attacker can choose the most effective attack vector based on available information. The exploitation requires minimal privileges and can be automated, making it particularly dangerous for unpatched systems. This vulnerability directly maps to attack techniques described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under T1190 for exploitation of remote services and T1059 for execution through PHP.
The primary mitigation strategy involves disabling the register_globals directive in the PHP configuration, which immediately eliminates one of the key prerequisites for exploitation. Additionally, all affected versions of F@cile Interactive Web should be upgraded to patched releases that properly validate and sanitize all user input before processing. Implementing proper input validation and output encoding techniques, such as those recommended by the OWASP Top Ten, would prevent this class of vulnerability from occurring. Network-based mitigations include implementing web application firewalls and access controls that restrict direct access to vulnerable endpoints. Organizations should also conduct thorough code reviews to identify similar patterns of insecure file inclusion practices and ensure that all user-supplied data is properly validated before being used in dynamic code execution contexts. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper parameter handling and input validation in preventing remote code execution attacks.