CVE-2006-5249 in Tagboard
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in tagmin/delTagUser.php in TagIt! Tagboard 2.1.B Build 2 (tagit2b) allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the configpath parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/24/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2006-5249 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw in the TagIt! Tagboard 2.1.B Build 2 application, specifically within the tagmin/delTagUser.php script. This vulnerability falls under the category of insecure direct object references and remote code execution issues, making it particularly dangerous for web applications. The flaw stems from the application's improper handling of user-supplied input in the configpath parameter, which is processed without adequate validation or sanitization.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability allows malicious actors to inject arbitrary URLs into the configpath parameter, enabling them to load and execute remote PHP code on the target server. This occurs because the application directly incorporates user input into file inclusion operations without proper input validation or whitelisting mechanisms. The vulnerability is classified as a CWE-98 issue, representing improper file inclusion where a web application includes files based on user-supplied input, leading to potential code execution. The attack vector is particularly severe as it enables remote code execution, which can result in complete server compromise and unauthorized access to sensitive data.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with the capability to perform various malicious activities including data theft, server takeover, and establishment of persistent backdoors. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to upload malicious files, modify existing application functionality, or even deploy additional malware. This vulnerability directly aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190, which describes the use of remote access tools and exploitation of web application vulnerabilities to gain unauthorized access to systems. The consequences for affected organizations include potential data breaches, service disruption, and significant reputational damage.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability involve implementing proper input validation and sanitization mechanisms, utilizing whitelisting approaches for file inclusion operations, and applying the principle of least privilege in application design. Organizations should immediately patch the affected application to the latest version or implement input validation that prevents URL injection into the configpath parameter. Additionally, web application firewalls should be configured to detect and block suspicious file inclusion patterns, while security monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual file access patterns. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of secure coding practices and input validation in preventing remote code execution attacks.