CVE-2006-5533 in AROUNDMe
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple PHP remote file inclusion vulnerabilities in AROUNDMe 0.6.9, and possibly earlier, when register_globals is enabled, allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the templatePath parameter in template/barnraiser_01/pol_view.tpl.php and other unspecified PHP scripts, a different vector than CVE-2006-5401.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/25/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2006-5533 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw affecting AROUNDMe version 0.6.9 and potentially earlier releases. This security weakness specifically exploits the dangerous combination of PHP's register_globals directive being enabled and improper input validation in template handling components. The vulnerability exists within the template/barnraiser_01/pol_view.tpl.php script and other unspecified PHP files, creating a pathway for malicious actors to inject and execute arbitrary PHP code on affected systems. The flaw operates through a parameter manipulation technique where attackers can manipulate the templatePath parameter to reference external URLs containing malicious code.
This vulnerability falls under the CWE-88 category of Improper Neutralization of Argument Delimiters in a Command, specifically manifesting as a remote file inclusion attack that leverages the trust placed in template parameters. The security implications are severe because when register_globals is enabled, PHP automatically creates global variables from GET, POST, and cookie data, eliminating the need for explicit variable declaration. This creates a dangerous environment where user-supplied input can directly influence the execution flow of the application. The attack vector differs from CVE-2006-5401, indicating this represents a distinct exploitation method that targets the template processing functionality rather than other potential inclusion points.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with full control over the affected web server's environment. Successful exploitation allows adversaries to upload and execute malicious scripts, potentially leading to complete system compromise, data theft, or use as a stepping stone for further attacks within the network. The vulnerability affects systems where PHP is configured with register_globals enabled, which was common in older PHP configurations but represents a significant security risk when present. Organizations running AROUNDMe versions 0.6.9 or earlier with this configuration face immediate risk of unauthorized access and potential system infiltration.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2006-5533 require multiple layers of defensive measures to address the root cause. The primary recommendation involves disabling the register_globals directive in PHP configuration, which eliminates the core condition enabling this attack. System administrators should also implement proper input validation and sanitization for all user-supplied parameters, particularly those used in file inclusion operations. Additionally, the application should be upgraded to a patched version of AROUNDMe that properly validates template paths and prevents external URL inclusion. Network-level protections such as web application firewalls can help detect and block malicious requests attempting to exploit this vulnerability. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this as a command and control activity under T1105, where adversaries establish persistence and maintain access through remote code execution vulnerabilities. Organizations should also consider implementing principle of least privilege access controls and regular security audits to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities across their web applications.