CVE-2006-5460 in phpht Topsites
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple PHP remote file inclusion vulnerabilities in Hinton Design phpht Topsites allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the phpht_real_path parameter to (1) index.php, (2) certain other scripts in the top-level directory, and (3) certain scripts in the admin/ directory. NOTE: CVE disputes this vulnerability because $phpht_real_path is defined before use in index.php and most other files except common.php, which is already covered by CVE-2006-5458
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/25/2026
The vulnerability described in CVE-2006-5460 represents a significant security flaw in the Hinton Design phpht Topsites web application that could potentially allow remote code execution through improper input validation. This issue manifests as multiple remote file inclusion vulnerabilities affecting various scripts within the application's directory structure. The vulnerability specifically targets the phpht_real_path parameter which, when manipulated by an attacker, could lead to arbitrary code execution on the target system. The affected files include index.php, scripts in the top-level directory, and scripts within the admin/ directory, making this a widespread concern across the application's functionality. The vulnerability's classification as disputed stems from the fact that the phpht_real_path variable is defined before use in most files, except for common.php which is already addressed by CVE-2006-5458, indicating that the vulnerability may be more nuanced than initially reported.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the application's failure to properly validate or sanitize user input before using it in file inclusion operations. When an attacker supplies a malicious URL through the phpht_real_path parameter, the application processes this input without adequate security checks, potentially allowing the inclusion of remote files that contain malicious PHP code. This type of vulnerability falls under the category of remote file inclusion attacks that are commonly categorized under CWE-88, which deals with improper neutralization of special elements used in an expression. The attack vector operates through the manipulation of input parameters that are directly used in file system operations, creating an opportunity for attackers to execute arbitrary code on the target server. The vulnerability demonstrates poor input validation practices where user-supplied data flows directly into file inclusion functions without proper sanitization or verification.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution to encompass potential complete system compromise. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability could gain unauthorized access to the web server, potentially leading to data theft, system modification, or even the establishment of persistent backdoors. The widespread nature of the affected files means that multiple attack vectors exist, increasing the likelihood of successful exploitation. From an attacker's perspective, this vulnerability provides a pathway to execute malicious code remotely without requiring authentication or local access to the system. The implications for organizations using this software include potential data breaches, service disruption, and compliance violations, particularly in environments where sensitive data processing occurs. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190, which covers the exploitation of remote services, and represents a classic example of how improper input handling can lead to critical security consequences.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on implementing robust input validation and sanitization practices throughout the application. The most effective immediate solution involves ensuring that all user-supplied input parameters are properly validated before being used in file operations. This includes implementing strict whitelisting of acceptable values, using absolute paths instead of relative paths, and avoiding direct user input in file inclusion operations. Organizations should also implement proper error handling to prevent information disclosure and consider implementing web application firewalls to detect and block suspicious requests. The vulnerability's disputed status suggests that proper code review and input validation should have prevented the issue from manifesting, highlighting the importance of security best practices in software development. Additionally, regular security audits and vulnerability assessments should be conducted to identify similar issues in other parts of the application or in related components that might present similar attack surfaces. The remediation process should also include updating the application to versions that properly address the input validation issues and implementing proper security configurations that prevent unauthorized file inclusion operations.