CVE-2006-5154 in DeluxeBB
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in cp/sig.php in DeluxeBB 1.09 and earlier allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the templatefolder parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/23/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2006-5154 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw in DeluxeBB version 1.09 and earlier, specifically affecting the cp/sig.php component of the application. This issue falls under the category of insecure direct object reference and remote code execution vulnerabilities, with direct implications for web application security and server compromise. The flaw stems from insufficient input validation within the templatefolder parameter, which allows malicious actors to inject arbitrary URLs that the application then attempts to include and execute as PHP code.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker crafts a malicious URL and passes it through the templatefolder parameter in the cp/sig.php script. The application fails to properly sanitize or validate this input, leading to the inclusion of external PHP files that can contain malicious code. This vulnerability directly maps to CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of argument delimiters in a command, and CWE-94, which addresses improper execution of code. The attack vector leverages the PHP include or require functions, which are commonly used for modular code organization but become dangerous when user input is not properly validated.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with potential access to the underlying server infrastructure. Successful exploitation could enable adversaries to upload backdoors, escalate privileges, access sensitive data, or use the compromised server as a launch point for further attacks within the network. The vulnerability affects the integrity and confidentiality of the web application, potentially leading to complete system compromise. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability aligns with T1190 (Exploit Public-Facing Application) and T1059 (Command and Scripting Interpreter) techniques, as attackers can leverage the application's interface to execute malicious commands and maintain persistent access.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2006-5154 should focus on immediate patching of the DeluxeBB application to version 1.10 or later, where this vulnerability has been addressed. Additionally, administrators should implement input validation mechanisms that prevent URL inclusion in parameters, utilize whitelisting approaches for template directories, and employ proper secure coding practices that avoid direct file inclusion based on user input. Network-level protections such as web application firewalls can provide additional defense in depth, while regular security assessments and code reviews should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other components. The remediation process should also include disabling remote file inclusion features in PHP configurations and implementing proper access controls to limit the impact of any potential exploitation attempts.