CVE-2006-5282 in SH-News
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple PHP remote file inclusion vulnerabilities in SH-News 3.1 and earlier allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the scriptpath parameter to (1) report.php, (2) archive.php, (3) comments.php, (4) init.php, or (5) news.php.
If you want to get the best quality for vulnerability data then you always have to consider VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/24/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2006-5282 represents a critical remote code execution flaw affecting SH-News version 3.1 and earlier implementations. This vulnerability resides within the application's handling of user-supplied input parameters, specifically targeting the scriptpath parameter across multiple core files including report.php, archive.php, comments.php, init.php, and news.php. The flaw enables attackers to inject malicious URLs that are subsequently processed as PHP code, creating a pathway for arbitrary code execution on the affected server. This type of vulnerability directly maps to CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an expression, and CWE-94, covering improper control of generation of code, both of which fall under the broader category of code injection vulnerabilities that have been consistently identified as high-risk threats in cybersecurity frameworks.
The technical mechanism behind this vulnerability exploits the insecure handling of file inclusion operations within the PHP application. When an attacker supplies a malicious URL through the scriptpath parameter, the application fails to properly validate or sanitize the input before using it in file inclusion operations. This allows the PHP interpreter to execute code from remote locations, effectively bypassing local security controls and enabling complete system compromise. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and requires no special privileges to exploit, making it particularly dangerous as it can be leveraged by remote attackers from anywhere on the internet. The attack vector aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190, which describes the use of remote access tools and exploitation of web application vulnerabilities, and T1059, covering the execution of commands through scripting languages.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with complete control over the affected server environment. Once exploited, attackers can access sensitive data, modify or delete content, install backdoors, and establish persistent access to the compromised system. The vulnerability affects the core functionality of SH-News, potentially compromising all news-related content management operations and exposing the entire web application infrastructure to unauthorized access. Organizations running affected versions face significant risks including data breaches, service disruption, and potential regulatory compliance violations. The widespread nature of this vulnerability across multiple files within the application increases the attack surface and makes it more difficult to secure, as each vulnerable endpoint represents a potential entry point for malicious actors.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2006-5282 must focus on immediate patching and implementation of input validation controls. The most effective solution involves upgrading to a patched version of SH-News that addresses the file inclusion vulnerabilities through proper input sanitization and validation mechanisms. Organizations should implement strict parameter validation that rejects any input containing URL schemes or external references, particularly in parameters used for file inclusion operations. Additionally, the application should be configured to disable remote file inclusion capabilities entirely, using PHP settings such as allow_url_include set to off. Network-level protections including web application firewalls and intrusion prevention systems can provide additional defense in depth, while regular security audits and code reviews should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other applications. The remediation process should also include monitoring for exploitation attempts and implementing proper logging of file inclusion operations to detect potential attacks. This vulnerability serves as a prime example of why secure coding practices, including the principle of least privilege and input validation, are essential components of any comprehensive cybersecurity program.