CVE-2006-5224 in Security Suite IP Logger
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in includes/logger_engine.php in Dimitri Seitz Security Suite IP Logger 1.0.0 in dwingmods for phpBB allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the phpbb_root_path parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/24/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2006-5224 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw within the Dimitri Seitz Security Suite IP Logger version 1.0.0 for phpBB. This security weakness resides in the includes/logger_engine.php file and manifests through improper input validation mechanisms that fail to sanitize user-supplied parameters. The vulnerability specifically affects the phpbb_root_path parameter which is manipulated by attackers to inject malicious URLs, creating a pathway for arbitrary code execution within the target system. Such a flaw fundamentally compromises the integrity of the affected web application and provides attackers with elevated privileges to manipulate the underlying server infrastructure.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability follows a well-established pattern that aligns with CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an OS command. Attackers can leverage the insecure parameter handling by supplying a malicious URL as the phpbb_root_path value, which then gets included by the vulnerable application. This inclusion process bypasses normal security controls and allows remote code execution through the PHP include mechanism. The vulnerability directly relates to CWE-94, which addresses the execution of arbitrary code, as it enables attackers to inject and execute PHP code of their choosing on the target server. The flaw demonstrates characteristics consistent with the ATT&CK framework's T1190 technique for exploiting vulnerabilities in remote services, specifically targeting the command execution and code injection domains.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with comprehensive access to the compromised system. Successful exploitation can lead to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, and the establishment of persistent backdoors within the affected phpBB installation. The vulnerability affects not just individual users but potentially entire forums that rely on the compromised security suite, as the flaw exists within core application components. Organizations using this specific version of the security suite face significant risk of unauthorized access, data breaches, and potential lateral movement within their network infrastructure. The vulnerability's remote nature means that attackers do not require physical access or prior authentication to exploit the flaw, making it particularly dangerous in public-facing web applications.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2006-5224 must address both immediate remediation and long-term security posture improvements. The most effective immediate solution involves upgrading to a patched version of the Dimitri Seitz Security Suite IP Logger or removing the vulnerable component entirely from the phpBB installation. Administrators should implement input validation and sanitization measures that prevent URL parameters from being directly included without proper verification. The principle of least privilege should be enforced by ensuring that the web application runs with minimal necessary permissions and that file inclusion operations are restricted to predefined safe locations. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can help detect and prevent exploitation attempts. Organizations should also consider implementing proper code review processes and security testing to identify similar vulnerabilities in other components of their phpBB installations, as this vulnerability demonstrates the importance of validating all user inputs and implementing secure coding practices throughout the application lifecycle.