CVE-2006-3185 in CMS Faethon
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in data/header.php in CMS Faethon 1.3.2 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the mainpath parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/25/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2006-3185 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw within the CMS Faethon version 1.3.2, specifically affecting the data/header.php component. This vulnerability exposes the system to remote code execution attacks through improper input validation mechanisms. The flaw manifests when the application fails to adequately sanitize user-supplied input passed through the mainpath parameter, creating an avenue for malicious actors to inject and execute arbitrary PHP code on the target server. The vulnerability falls under the category of CWE-98, which describes improper direct object reference vulnerabilities where applications fail to properly validate or sanitize input that controls file inclusion paths.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker crafts a malicious URL and passes it through the mainpath parameter, which is then processed by the data/header.php script without proper validation. This allows the attacker to include remote files from external servers, effectively enabling remote code execution capabilities. The flaw demonstrates poor input validation practices and highlights the absence of proper sanitization mechanisms that should prevent attackers from manipulating file inclusion paths. The vulnerability's severity is amplified by the fact that it allows complete system compromise, as the included remote files can execute arbitrary PHP code with the privileges of the web application. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190, which describes the use of remote file inclusion to execute malicious code.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with full control over the affected system. Once exploited, attackers can establish persistent access, escalate privileges, and potentially use the compromised server as a launching point for further attacks within the network. The vulnerability affects the integrity and confidentiality of the entire CMS installation, potentially leading to data breaches, service disruption, and unauthorized access to sensitive information. Organizations running CMS Faethon 1.3.2 are particularly vulnerable to this attack vector, as the flaw exists in the core header inclusion mechanism that is likely used throughout the application. The vulnerability also demonstrates a broader pattern of insecure programming practices that were common in web applications during this period, emphasizing the need for proper input validation and secure coding practices.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability must address both immediate remediation and long-term security improvements. The primary fix involves implementing proper input validation and sanitization for all user-supplied parameters, particularly those used in file inclusion operations. Organizations should implement allowlists for acceptable file paths and reject any input that attempts to reference external URLs or non-standard file locations. Additionally, disabling remote file inclusion capabilities in PHP configurations and implementing proper access controls for file operations can significantly reduce the attack surface. The implementation of web application firewalls and security monitoring systems can help detect and prevent exploitation attempts. Regular security audits and code reviews should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other components of the application, ensuring comprehensive protection against remote file inclusion attacks. This vulnerability serves as a critical reminder of the importance of secure coding practices and proper input validation in preventing remote code execution attacks that can lead to complete system compromise.