CVE-2006-5244 in Easy Blog
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple PHP remote file inclusion vulnerabilities in OpenDock Easy Blog 1.4 and earlier, when register_globals is enabled, allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the doc_directory parameter in (1) down_stat.php, (2) file.php, (3) find_file.php, (4) lib_read_file.php, and (5) lib_form_file.php in sw/lib_up_file; (6) find_comment.php, (7) comment.php, and (8) lib_comment.php in sw/lib_comment/; (9) sw/lib_find/find.php; and other unspecified vectors.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/24/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2006-5244 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw affecting OpenDock Easy Blog versions 1.4 and earlier. This vulnerability stems from the insecure handling of user-supplied input parameters within multiple script files, creating a pathway for remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code on the target system. The flaw specifically manifests when the PHP configuration option register_globals is enabled, which effectively exposes application variables to external manipulation through HTTP parameters. The vulnerability impacts several key files including down_stat.php, file.php, find_file.php, and various library files within the sw/lib_up_file and sw/lib_comment directories, demonstrating a widespread issue across the application's file handling mechanisms.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through the manipulation of the doc_directory parameter, which is directly incorporated into file inclusion operations without proper validation or sanitization. When register_globals is enabled, attackers can inject malicious URLs through the doc_directory parameter, causing the application to include and execute remote PHP code from attacker-controlled servers. This represents a classic remote file inclusion (RFI) vulnerability categorized under CWE-88, which specifically addresses the improper handling of external input in dynamic code execution contexts. The vulnerability's reach extends beyond simple code execution to encompass potential privilege escalation and system compromise, as the included remote files can contain malicious payloads designed to establish persistent access or exfiltrate sensitive data.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted, as it provides attackers with complete control over the affected web server running OpenDock Easy Blog. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to execute arbitrary commands, upload malicious files, and potentially escalate privileges to gain deeper access to the underlying system. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that the vulnerability affects multiple files within the application's core functionality, including file management, comment handling, and search operations. This widespread impact means that an attacker could compromise various aspects of the blog's functionality while maintaining persistent access through the included remote code. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190, which describes the use of remote file inclusion to gain initial access and execute malicious code.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2006-5244 require immediate action to address the root cause of the vulnerability. The most effective immediate solution involves disabling the register_globals PHP configuration option, which removes the primary condition enabling the attack. Additionally, implementing strict input validation and sanitization for all user-supplied parameters, particularly those used in file inclusion operations, is essential. Application developers should employ whitelisting approaches for file paths and ensure that any dynamic file inclusion operations use absolute paths rather than user-controllable variables. Regular security audits and code reviews should focus on identifying similar patterns in other application components, as this vulnerability demonstrates a common flaw in legacy PHP applications. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls to detect and block suspicious file inclusion patterns, and conduct thorough vulnerability assessments to identify other potential RFI vulnerabilities within their web applications. The remediation process must include updating to supported versions of OpenDock Easy Blog where these vulnerabilities have been addressed through proper input validation and secure coding practices.