CVE-2006-5185 in HAMweather
Summary
by MITRE
Eval injection vulnerability in Template.php in HAMweather 3.9.8.4 and earlier allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a modified query string, which is supplied to an eval function call within the do_parse_code function.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/23/2026
The CVE-2006-5185 vulnerability represents a critical server-side code injection flaw in the HAMweather application version 3.9.8.4 and earlier. This vulnerability exists within the Template.php file where user-supplied input from query strings is directly processed through an eval function call. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization mechanisms that fail to properly filter or escape user-provided data before it is executed within the application context. This type of vulnerability falls under the category of insecure direct object reference and code injection patterns commonly documented in the CWE database as CWE-94, which specifically addresses "Improper Control of Generation of Code ('Code Injection')."
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when remote attackers manipulate query string parameters that are subsequently passed to the do_parse_code function. The application's failure to validate or sanitize these inputs creates an environment where malicious code can be injected and executed with the privileges of the web application. The eval function call acts as the execution point where attacker-controlled code is interpreted and executed, effectively bypassing normal application security controls. This vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it allows for arbitrary code execution without requiring authentication or specific user interaction beyond crafting a malicious URL.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple data theft or modification. Successful exploitation can result in complete system compromise, allowing attackers to execute commands on the affected server, gain access to sensitive data, install backdoors, or use the compromised system as a launch point for further attacks within the network. The vulnerability affects any system running HAMweather 3.9.8.4 or earlier versions, making it a widespread concern for organizations that have not updated their installations. This type of vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for "Command and Scripting Interpreter: PowerShell" and T1059.002 for "Command and Scripting Interpreter: Python" when considering the potential execution vectors, though the specific implementation uses PHP's eval function.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability must include immediate application updates to version 3.9.8.5 or later, which contain the necessary patches to address the input validation issues. Organizations should implement comprehensive input validation and sanitization measures that prevent user-supplied data from being executed as code. The use of parameterized queries and secure coding practices can prevent similar vulnerabilities from occurring in the future. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can help detect and block exploitation attempts. Security monitoring should focus on unusual query string patterns and unexpected code execution activities. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of regular security assessments and keeping all third-party applications updated, as this flaw represents a classic example of how outdated software can provide attackers with easy paths to system compromise. This vulnerability demonstrates the critical need for proper input handling and the dangers of using eval functions with user-controllable data, reinforcing principles from the OWASP Top Ten and secure coding guidelines that emphasize the prevention of code injection attacks through proper validation and sanitization techniques.