CVE-2006-5115 in KGB
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in kgcall.php in KGB 1.87 allows remote attackers to include and execute arbitrary local files via a .. (dot dot) in the engine parameter, as demonstrated by uploading a file containing PHP code with an image/jpeg content type, and then referencing this file through the engine parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/23/2026
The CVE-2006-5115 vulnerability represents a critical directory traversal flaw in the KGB 1.87 web application that exposes a fundamental security weakness in input validation and file handling mechanisms. This vulnerability resides within the kgcall.php component and enables remote attackers to manipulate the engine parameter through malicious dot-dot-slash sequences, creating a pathway for arbitrary code execution. The flaw demonstrates how insufficient sanitization of user-supplied input can lead to severe system compromise, as attackers can leverage this weakness to access and execute local files on the target server.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits the lack of proper input validation in the engine parameter processing within kgcall.php. When an attacker uploads a file containing PHP code with an image/jpeg content type, they can subsequently reference this malicious file through the vulnerable engine parameter by using directory traversal sequences. This technique allows the application to interpret the malicious path and include the uploaded file, effectively executing the PHP code within the context of the web server. The vulnerability operates at the core level of file inclusion mechanisms, where the application fails to properly validate or sanitize the path components before processing them.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with the ability to perform reconnaissance, escalate privileges, and potentially gain complete control over the affected system. The weakness can be exploited to access sensitive system files, database credentials, or other confidential information stored on the server. From an attacker's perspective, this vulnerability aligns with attack patterns described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the T1059.007 technique for command and scripting interpreter, as it enables execution of arbitrary code through web-based interfaces. The vulnerability also maps to CWE-22, which specifically addresses improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as directory traversal or path traversal attacks.
Security professionals should note that this vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of input validation and proper file handling in web applications. The flaw exemplifies how a single missing validation check can lead to complete system compromise, making it a prime target for exploitation by automated attack tools. Organizations should implement comprehensive mitigations including strict input validation, proper file type checking, and the use of secure coding practices that prevent path traversal attacks. The vulnerability also highlights the need for regular security assessments and code reviews to identify similar weaknesses in other applications. Implementation of web application firewalls and proper access controls can provide additional layers of defense against such attacks, while adherence to secure coding guidelines such as those provided by OWASP can help prevent similar vulnerabilities in future development cycles.