CVE-2006-2866 in DotClear
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in layout/prepend.php in DotClear 1.2.4 and earlier allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a FTP URL in the blog_dc_path parameter, which passes file_exists() and is_dir() tests on PHP 5.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/04/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2006-2866 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw in DotClear version 1.2.4 and earlier systems. This issue manifests within the layout/prepend.php file where the application fails to properly validate user input parameters, specifically the blog_dc_path parameter. The vulnerability stems from the application's improper handling of file paths that could be manipulated through FTP URLs, creating a pathway for remote code execution. The flaw exploits a fundamental security weakness in how the application processes external file references, allowing malicious actors to inject arbitrary PHP code into the system through crafted input parameters.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability relies on PHP's ability to process file operations through FTP URLs, which bypasses standard file system security checks. When the blog_dc_path parameter contains a valid FTP URL, the application's file_exists() and is_dir() functions are designed to accept these remote paths, treating them as legitimate file references. This behavior creates a dangerous condition where the application can be tricked into executing code from remote servers, as the system does not adequately distinguish between local and remote file access. The vulnerability specifically affects PHP 5 environments where these functions are configured to accept remote file references, making the attack vector particularly effective against older PHP installations.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution to encompass complete system compromise and potential data breaches. Attackers can leverage this flaw to upload malicious PHP scripts, establish persistent backdoors, or execute commands on the affected server with the privileges of the web application. The remote nature of the vulnerability means that attackers do not require physical access to the system, allowing them to exploit the flaw from anywhere on the internet. This vulnerability directly relates to CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an expression, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190, which covers exploitation of remote services through web applications. The compromise of a web application through this vulnerability can lead to unauthorized access to sensitive data, system enumeration, and potential lateral movement within the network infrastructure.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2006-2866 require immediate implementation of multiple defensive measures. The most effective approach involves upgrading to DotClear version 1.2.5 or later, which contains patches specifically addressing this vulnerability. Additionally, administrators should disable the ability to pass external URLs through user input parameters, particularly when these parameters are used in file inclusion operations. Implementing proper input validation and sanitization measures can prevent malicious FTP URLs from being processed by the application. Security configurations should include disabling PHP's ability to process remote file references through functions like file_exists() and is_dir() when dealing with user-supplied input. Network-level protections such as firewalls and intrusion detection systems should be configured to monitor for suspicious file access patterns and unusual FTP URL usage. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper input validation and the dangers of allowing external file references to influence application behavior, making it a prime example of why secure coding practices must be enforced throughout the software development lifecycle.