CVE-2006-3173 in Content*Builder
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple PHP remote file inclusion vulnerabilities in Content*Builder 0.7.5 allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the (1) path[cb] parameter to (a) libraries/comment/postComment.php and (b) modules/poll/poll.php, (2) rel parameter to (c) modules/archive/overview.inc.php, and the (3) actualModuleDir parameter to (d) modules/forum/showThread.inc.php. NOTE: the provenance of this information is unknown; the details are obtained from third party information.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/02/2025
This vulnerability affects Content*Builder version 0.7.5 and represents a critical remote code execution flaw through multiple remote file inclusion vectors. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation in several PHP scripts that directly incorporate user-supplied URL parameters into file inclusion operations without proper sanitization or verification. Attackers can exploit these weaknesses by injecting malicious URLs through specific parameters, enabling arbitrary PHP code execution on the target server. The affected scripts include libraries/comment/postComment.php, modules/poll/poll.php, modules/archive/overview.inc.php, and modules/forum/showThread.inc.php, each presenting distinct attack surfaces for remote code execution. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an expression, and specifically relates to CWE-94, which covers execution of arbitrary code due to improper input validation in dynamic code execution contexts. The attack pattern follows the remote file inclusion methodology documented in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under technique T1190 for exploitation of remote file inclusion vulnerabilities.
The technical exploitation involves crafting malicious URLs that are passed through the vulnerable parameters to the affected PHP scripts. When these scripts process the user input and include the specified files, the server executes any PHP code contained within the remote files. This creates a direct pathway for attackers to upload and execute malicious code, potentially gaining full control over the affected server. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it allows attackers to execute code with the privileges of the web server process, which typically has access to sensitive system resources and database connections. The remote nature of the attack means that exploitation can occur from anywhere on the internet without requiring local access or authentication.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and encompasses multiple security risks including complete system compromise, data exfiltration, and persistent backdoor access. Successful exploitation can result in unauthorized access to sensitive information stored within the ContentBuilder application, potential lateral movement within the network through compromised server resources, and the ability to establish persistent access through backdoor installations. Organizations running affected versions of ContentBuilder face significant risk of data breaches, service disruption, and potential regulatory compliance violations. The vulnerability also exposes the underlying system to additional attacks through the compromised server, as attackers can use the compromised system as a launching point for further network intrusions.
Mitigation strategies should include immediate patching of the Content*Builder application to the latest secure version that addresses these vulnerabilities. Organizations must implement strict input validation and sanitization measures across all user-supplied parameters, particularly those used in file inclusion operations. Network segmentation and firewall rules should be configured to restrict access to vulnerable scripts and limit the attack surface. Implementing web application firewalls can provide additional protection by filtering malicious requests before they reach the vulnerable applications. Security monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual file inclusion patterns and unauthorized code execution attempts. Additionally, organizations should conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify other potential remote file inclusion vulnerabilities in their web applications and ensure proper parameter validation throughout their codebase. Regular security updates and patch management processes should be implemented to prevent similar vulnerabilities from being introduced in future versions.