CVE-2006-5250 in Blueshoes Framework
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in lib/googlesearch/GoogleSearch.php in BlueShoes 4.6_public and earlier allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the APP[path][lib] parameter, a different vector than CVE-2006-2864.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/24/2026
The vulnerability described in CVE-2006-5250 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw within the BlueShoes content management system version 4.6_public and earlier. This vulnerability specifically affects the lib/googlesearch/GoogleSearch.php component where improper input validation allows malicious actors to inject arbitrary URLs into the APP[path][lib] parameter. The flaw operates as a remote code execution vector that enables attackers to load and execute malicious PHP code from remote servers, fundamentally compromising the integrity and security posture of affected systems. This vulnerability demonstrates a classic path traversal and remote code execution pattern that has been prevalent in web application security for decades.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient sanitization of user-supplied input within the application's parameter handling mechanism. When the BlueShoes application processes the APP[path][lib] parameter, it fails to properly validate or sanitize the input before using it in file inclusion operations. This allows an attacker to inject a malicious URL that gets processed by PHP's include or require functions, effectively executing code from an external server. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates outside the scope of the original file inclusion attack vectors described in CVE-2006-2864, indicating a separate but equally severe pathway for exploitation. The flaw aligns with CWE-98, which describes improper input validation leading to code execution through file inclusion mechanisms.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple data theft or defacement. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to establish persistent backdoors, exfiltrate sensitive data, compromise entire server infrastructure, or use the compromised system as a launch point for further attacks within a network. The remote nature of the exploit means that attackers can target vulnerable systems from anywhere on the internet without requiring physical access or prior authentication. This vulnerability creates a significant risk for organizations using BlueShoes 4.6_public or earlier versions, as it provides a direct path to system compromise and potential lateral movement within network environments. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that the vulnerability exists in a core library component that likely handles various search and indexing functions within the application.
Security mitigations for CVE-2006-5250 should prioritize immediate patching and application updates to the latest BlueShoes versions that address this vulnerability. Organizations must implement strict input validation and sanitization measures that prevent any user-supplied input from being directly used in file inclusion operations. The recommended approach includes using allowlists for valid paths, implementing proper parameter validation, and avoiding dynamic file inclusion based on user input. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing web application firewalls and runtime application self-protection mechanisms to detect and block exploitation attempts. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to T1059.007 for PHP-based command execution and T1068 for privilege escalation through compromised web applications. Network segmentation and regular security assessments should be implemented to reduce the potential impact of such vulnerabilities and prevent their exploitation in production environments.