CVE-2006-5235 in Dimension of phpBB
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in includes/functions_kb.php in Dimension of phpBB 0.2.6 and earlier allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the phpbb_root_path parameter. NOTE: the provenance of this information is unknown; the details are obtained from third party information.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/24/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2006-5235 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw within the phpBB Dimension extension version 0.2.6 and earlier. This security weakness resides in the includes/functions_kb.php file and demonstrates a classic remote code execution vulnerability that has been documented in the cybersecurity community for over a decade. The vulnerability specifically affects the phpBB forum software ecosystem and represents a significant risk to organizations utilizing affected versions of the Dimension extension.
The technical flaw manifests through improper input validation in the phpbb_root_path parameter handling within the functions_kb.php file. When an attacker crafts a malicious URL and passes it as the phpbb_root_path parameter, the application fails to properly sanitize this input before using it in file inclusion operations. This lack of input sanitization creates an exploitable condition where arbitrary PHP code can be executed on the target server. The vulnerability operates under CWE-94, which classifies it as an "Improper Control of Generation of Code ('Code Injection')" and specifically aligns with the ATT&CK technique T1190 for "Exploit Public-Facing Application" through remote code execution.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with complete control over the affected server. An attacker can leverage this vulnerability to upload malicious files, execute system commands, access sensitive data, and potentially establish persistent backdoors. The remote nature of this vulnerability means that attackers do not require physical access to the system, and the attack can be launched from anywhere on the internet. Organizations using affected versions face risks of data breaches, service disruption, and complete system compromise, particularly in environments where phpBB forums are publicly accessible.
Security mitigations for this vulnerability include immediate patching of the Dimension extension to version 0.2.7 or later, which contains the necessary input validation fixes. Organizations should also implement proper input sanitization measures and parameter validation throughout their applications, particularly when handling user-supplied data that may be used in file operations. Network-level protections such as web application firewalls and intrusion prevention systems can provide additional defense-in-depth measures. The vulnerability serves as a prime example of why input validation and secure coding practices are essential, as it demonstrates how a single parameter handling flaw can result in complete system compromise. Organizations should also conduct regular security assessments and vulnerability scans to identify similar issues within their software ecosystems, particularly in legacy applications that may not receive regular security updates.