CVE-2006-4553 in Com Comprofiler Component
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in plugin.class.php in the com_comprofiler Components 1.0 RC2 for Mambo and Joomla! allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the mosConfig_absolute_path parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/24/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2006-4553 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw in the com_comprofiler component version 1.0 RC2 for Mambo and Joomla! platforms. This security weakness resides within the plugin.class.php file and demonstrates a classic path traversal and code execution vulnerability that has significant implications for web application security. The vulnerability specifically targets the mosConfig_absolute_path parameter which is improperly validated and sanitized, allowing attackers to inject malicious URLs that can be executed within the context of the web server.
The technical flaw manifests through improper input validation mechanisms that fail to adequately filter or sanitize user-supplied data passed to the mosConfig_absolute_path parameter. When this parameter receives a URL containing malicious PHP code, the application processes it without sufficient security controls, leading to the inclusion and execution of arbitrary code on the target system. This vulnerability operates under the CWE-98 weakness category, which specifically addresses improper input validation leading to remote file inclusion attacks. The flaw essentially allows attackers to bypass normal access controls and execute code with the privileges of the web server process, potentially enabling full system compromise.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with a pathway to establish persistent access to affected systems. An attacker can leverage this vulnerability to upload backdoors, exfiltrate sensitive data, or deploy additional malicious payloads within the compromised environment. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that the vulnerability affects widely used content management systems like Mambo and Joomla! where com_comprofiler is a commonly installed component. This vulnerability directly maps to ATT&CK technique T1190, which describes the use of remote file inclusion to execute arbitrary code, and T1078, which covers legitimate credentials use for persistence. The vulnerability also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059, representing command and scripting interpreter usage for code execution.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2006-4553 should prioritize immediate patching of affected systems, as the vulnerability has been well-documented and patched by the respective CMS vendors. Organizations should implement input validation controls that sanitize all user-supplied data, particularly parameters used in file inclusion operations. Security configurations should disable remote file inclusion capabilities where possible, and implement proper parameter validation that rejects suspicious URL patterns. Additionally, network-level controls such as web application firewalls can provide additional layers of protection by monitoring and blocking requests containing malicious URL patterns. Regular security audits and vulnerability assessments should be conducted to identify similar weaknesses in other components and ensure that input validation mechanisms are properly implemented across all application interfaces. The 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.