CVE-2006-5865 in MyAlbum
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in language.inc.php in MyAlbum 3.02 and earlier allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the langs_dir parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/27/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2006-5865 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw in the MyAlbum 3.02 content management system that exposes applications to arbitrary code execution attacks. This vulnerability specifically affects the language.inc.php file within the MyAlbum framework, where improper input validation allows malicious actors to inject external URLs into the langs_dir parameter. The flaw stems from the application's failure to properly sanitize user-supplied input before incorporating it into file inclusion operations, creating a direct pathway for attackers to execute malicious PHP code on the target server.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-98, which describes improper input validation leading to remote file inclusion attacks. The flaw operates by accepting a URL parameter that is directly used in a file inclusion directive without adequate sanitization or validation. When an attacker supplies a malicious URL through the langs_dir parameter, the application processes this input and attempts to include the remote file, effectively executing any PHP code contained within that remote resource. This type of vulnerability falls under the ATT&CK technique T1190 - Exploit Public-Facing Application, where adversaries target web applications to gain unauthorized access and execute malicious code.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with complete control over the affected server. Successful exploitation enables attackers to upload additional malicious files, establish persistent backdoors, access sensitive data, and potentially use the compromised system as a launchpad for further attacks within the network. The vulnerability affects all versions of MyAlbum up to and including version 3.02, making it particularly dangerous given the widespread adoption of this content management system. The remote nature of the attack means that exploitation can occur from anywhere on the internet without requiring physical access to the target system, significantly increasing the attack surface and potential damage.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability should implement immediate mitigations including updating to the latest version of MyAlbum where the flaw has been patched, applying input validation controls to prevent malicious URLs from being processed, and implementing web application firewalls to detect and block suspicious parameter values. The patch typically involves implementing proper input sanitization and validation techniques, such as whitelisting acceptable directory names, using allowlists for valid file paths, and implementing strict validation of URL formats. Additionally, system administrators should conduct thorough security assessments of their web applications to identify similar vulnerabilities and implement comprehensive security monitoring to detect potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability serves as a critical reminder of the importance of input validation in web applications and the severe consequences that can result from inadequate security controls in content management systems.