CVE-2006-5922 in Wheatblog
Summary
by MITRE
index.php in Wheatblog (wB) allows remote attackers to obtain sensitive information via certain values of the postPtr[] and next parameters, which reveals the path in an error message.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/27/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2006-5922 affects Wheatblog version wB and represents a sensitive information disclosure issue within the index.php script. This flaw manifests when specific values are provided to the postPtr[] and next parameters, resulting in error messages that expose system path information to remote attackers. The vulnerability falls under the category of information disclosure vulnerabilities as defined by CWE-200, which specifically addresses the exposure of sensitive information through improper error handling mechanisms. The security implications of such a vulnerability are significant as it provides attackers with valuable reconnaissance data that could be leveraged for subsequent attacks.
The technical execution of this vulnerability occurs through parameter manipulation within the web application's input handling. When attackers submit crafted values to the postPtr[] and next parameters, the application fails to properly validate or sanitize these inputs, leading to the generation of error messages that contain filesystem path information. This represents a classic case of improper error handling where the application's response to malformed input inadvertently reveals system internals. The vulnerability demonstrates poor input validation practices and inadequate error message sanitization, both of which are core principles of secure coding as outlined in the OWASP Top Ten and the CWE classification system. The error messages typically contain directory paths, filenames, and potentially other system-specific information that could be used to map the application's file structure.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability creates a significant security risk for Wheatblog installations as it provides attackers with the ability to perform reconnaissance without requiring authentication or specific privileges. The exposed path information could reveal directory structures, file locations, and potentially server configuration details that would otherwise remain hidden. This information disclosure could facilitate more sophisticated attacks such as local file inclusion vulnerabilities, directory traversal exploits, or other attacks that rely on knowledge of the underlying filesystem structure. The vulnerability also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1213.002 which covers data from information repositories, as the attacker gains access to internal system paths through the error messages. Additionally, this vulnerability could be leveraged in conjunction with other weaknesses to escalate attacks, making it a critical concern for system administrators.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2006-5922 should focus on implementing proper input validation and error handling mechanisms within the Wheatblog application. The primary remediation involves sanitizing all user inputs, particularly those related to the postPtr[] and next parameters, and implementing comprehensive error handling that does not reveal system path information to end users. This includes configuring the application to display generic error messages instead of detailed system information, implementing proper input validation routines, and ensuring that all parameters are properly sanitized before processing. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls that can detect and block malicious parameter manipulation attempts, and apply the latest security patches or upgrades to the Wheatblog software. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the importance of secure error handling practices and the necessity of following secure coding guidelines to prevent information disclosure vulnerabilities that could compromise entire systems.