CVE-2006-4591 in Template Seller
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple PHP remote file inclusion vulnerabilities in AlstraSoft Template Seller, and possibly AltraSoft Template Seller Pro 3.25, allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the config[template_path] parameter to (1) payment/payment_result.php or (2) /payment/spuser_result.php.
If you want to get the best quality for vulnerability data then you always have to consider VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/29/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2006-4591 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw affecting AlstraSoft Template Seller and potentially AlstraSoft Template Seller Pro version 3.25. This vulnerability resides within the application's handling of user-supplied input through the config[template_path] parameter, which is processed in two distinct script files: payment/payment_result.php and payment/spuser_result.php. The flaw stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization mechanisms that fail to properly restrict the sources from which files can be included, creating an exploitable condition that allows remote attackers to inject malicious code execution paths.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an expression, specifically in the context of remote file inclusion attacks. The flaw operates by accepting a URL parameter that gets directly incorporated into a file inclusion directive without adequate sanitization or validation. Attackers can manipulate the config[template_path] parameter to point to malicious remote servers hosting PHP code, thereby enabling arbitrary code execution on the vulnerable system. This type of vulnerability falls under the ATT&CK technique T1190, specifically targeting remote file inclusion to establish persistent access and execute malicious payloads.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted, as it provides attackers with complete control over the affected server. Successful exploitation allows threat actors to execute arbitrary commands, potentially leading to data breaches, system compromise, and further lateral movement within the network. The vulnerability's remote nature means that attackers can exploit it without requiring local access or credentials, making it particularly dangerous for web applications. The affected scripts payment_result.php and spuser_result.php represent high-value targets since they likely handle payment processing and user account management, providing attackers with opportunities to manipulate financial transactions or user data.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should include immediate input validation and sanitization of all user-supplied parameters, particularly those used in file inclusion operations. The implementation of a whitelist approach for template paths, rather than accepting arbitrary URLs, would prevent unauthorized file inclusion. Additionally, disabling remote file inclusion capabilities in PHP configurations and implementing proper parameter validation using regular expressions to restrict input to legitimate template paths would significantly reduce the attack surface. Security measures should also include regular code reviews, application firewalls, and monitoring for suspicious file inclusion patterns. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of input validation in web applications and aligns with security best practices outlined in OWASP Top Ten, specifically addressing the risk of remote code execution through insecure file handling. Organizations should also consider implementing proper access controls and network segmentation to limit the potential impact of successful exploitation attempts.