CVE-2006-5103 in bbsNew
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in admin/index2.php in bbsNew 2.0.1 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the "right" parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/23/2026
The vulnerability described in CVE-2006-5103 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw within the bbsNew 2.0.1 bulletin board system, specifically affecting the admin/index2.php script. This vulnerability stems from improper input validation and sanitization mechanisms that fail to properly restrict user-supplied data from being directly included in PHP execution contexts. The flaw manifests when the application accepts a "right" parameter that is subsequently processed through a require or include statement without adequate sanitization, creating an avenue for malicious actors to inject and execute arbitrary PHP code on the target server. The vulnerability directly maps to CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an expression, and specifically aligns with CWE-94, which addresses the execution of arbitrary code or commands, as the flaw enables remote code execution through crafted input parameters.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker crafts a malicious URL and passes it as the "right" parameter to the vulnerable admin/index2.php endpoint. The application processes this parameter without proper validation, allowing the attacker to specify a remote file location that contains malicious PHP code. When the vulnerable application attempts to include this remote file, the PHP interpreter executes the malicious code within the context of the web server process, potentially granting the attacker full control over the affected system. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can be exploited without authentication and can be leveraged to establish persistent access, escalate privileges, or exfiltrate sensitive data from the compromised system.
The operational impact of CVE-2006-5103 extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with the capability to perform various malicious activities within the compromised environment. Attackers can use this vulnerability to deploy web shells, modify database contents, steal user credentials, or even use the compromised server as a launch point for further attacks against internal networks. The vulnerability affects the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the affected system, as it can lead to complete system compromise and unauthorized access to sensitive information. Organizations running vulnerable versions of bbsNew face significant risks including data breaches, service disruption, and potential regulatory compliance violations that could result in substantial financial and reputational damage.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate patching and implementation of input validation controls. Organizations must apply the vendor-provided security patches or upgrade to versions that address this vulnerability. In the absence of immediate patching, administrators should implement proper input validation and sanitization mechanisms, particularly by avoiding direct inclusion of user-supplied parameters. The implementation of web application firewalls and security monitoring systems can help detect and block exploitation attempts. Additionally, following the principle of least privilege and implementing proper access controls can limit the damage if exploitation occurs. This vulnerability demonstrates the importance of secure coding practices and input validation, aligning with ATT&CK techniques such as T1059 for command and scripting interpreter and T1566 for credential harvesting, as attackers can leverage such vulnerabilities to establish persistent access and escalate privileges within the compromised environment.