CVE-2006-5432 in phpPowerCards
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple direct static code injection vulnerabilities in db/txt.inc.php in phpPowerCards 2.10, when register_globals is enabled, allow remote attackers to create or overwrite arbitrary files via the (1) email[to], (2) email[from], (3) name[to], (4) name[from], (5) picture, (6) comment, or (7) sessionID parameter, as demonstrated by creating a new .php file that permits remote file inclusion, and then requesting this file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/25/2026
The vulnerability described in CVE-2006-5432 represents a critical security flaw in phpPowerCards version 2.10 that exploits improper input validation and insecure coding practices. This issue specifically affects the db/txt.inc.php file and becomes exploitable when the PHP configuration option register_globals is enabled, creating a dangerous environment where attacker-controlled variables can directly influence application behavior. The vulnerability stems from the application's failure to properly sanitize user-supplied input before using it in file operations, allowing malicious actors to manipulate the application's file handling mechanisms through multiple parameter injection points.
The technical exploitation occurs through seven distinct parameter vectors including email[to], email[from], name[to], name[from], picture, comment, and sessionID fields within the application's input processing. When register_globals is enabled, these parameters become directly accessible as PHP variables, bypassing normal input validation mechanisms. Attackers can craft malicious input that, when processed by the vulnerable script, results in arbitrary file creation or overwriting operations. The most dangerous aspect of this vulnerability is demonstrated by the ability to create new .php files that can be used for remote file inclusion attacks, effectively allowing attackers to execute arbitrary code on the target server.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted, as it provides attackers with persistent access to the target system through file injection capabilities. Once exploited, attackers can establish backdoors, upload malware, or create web shells that maintain access even after the initial exploit is completed. The vulnerability essentially allows for complete compromise of the affected server, as attackers can manipulate the application's file system to create malicious files that can be executed by the web server. This creates a persistent threat that can be used for data exfiltration, system reconnaissance, or as a stepping stone for further attacks within the network infrastructure.
This vulnerability aligns with CWE-94, which describes the weakness of allowing code to be injected or executed, and specifically relates to CWE-20, which covers improper input validation. The attack pattern follows the techniques outlined in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the T1190 category for Exploit Public-Facing Application, with potential lateral movement opportunities through the created backdoors. The vulnerability also demonstrates characteristics of T1059 for command and scripting interpreter, as attackers can execute arbitrary commands through the uploaded PHP files. Organizations should immediately disable register_globals in their PHP configurations, implement proper input validation and sanitization, and apply the latest security patches to mitigate this risk. Additionally, regular security assessments and code reviews should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other applications that may be susceptible to the same class of injection attacks.
The remediation approach must address both the immediate configuration issues and the underlying code vulnerabilities. Disabling register_globals in PHP configuration is essential, as this setting fundamentally undermines application security by making all request variables globally accessible. Implementing proper input validation through whitelisting techniques and using parameterized queries or prepared statements would prevent the injection of malicious file paths. Organizations should also implement proper file access controls and audit mechanisms to detect unauthorized file modifications. The vulnerability highlights the importance of following secure coding practices and adhering to the principle of least privilege in application design, where user input should never be trusted and all file operations should be strictly validated against expected patterns and permissions.