CVE-2006-5948 in phpPeanuts
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in pntUnit/Inspect.php in phpPeanuts 1.1 and earlier allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the Include parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/27/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2006-5948 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw within the phpPeanuts content management system version 1.1 and earlier. This vulnerability specifically affects the pntUnit/Inspect.php component where improper input validation allows malicious actors to inject arbitrary URLs into the Include parameter. The flaw stems from the application's failure to properly sanitize user-supplied input before using it in file inclusion operations, creating an avenue for remote code execution attacks.
This vulnerability maps directly to CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an expression, and more specifically to CWE-94, which addresses the execution of arbitrary code or commands. The technical implementation of this flaw occurs when the application processes user input through the Include parameter without adequate sanitization or validation, allowing attackers to specify external URLs that get included and executed as PHP code. The vulnerability exists because the system uses user-controllable variables in file inclusion functions without proper security checks, making it susceptible to manipulation by remote attackers who can inject malicious URLs pointing to attacker-controlled resources.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe, as it enables remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code on the affected server with the privileges of the web application. This could lead to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, and the establishment of persistent backdoors. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to upload malicious files, escalate privileges, or use the compromised server as a launching point for further attacks within the network infrastructure. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous in environments where the web application has elevated privileges or access to sensitive data repositories.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate patching of the phpPeanuts application to version 1.2 or later, where the file inclusion vulnerability has been addressed. Additionally, administrators should implement input validation measures that sanitize all user-supplied data before processing, particularly parameters used in file inclusion operations. The implementation of the principle of least privilege should be enforced, ensuring that web applications run with minimal necessary permissions. Network-level protections such as firewall rules that restrict access to sensitive application components and web application firewalls that can detect and block malicious inclusion patterns should also be deployed. This vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper input validation and the dangerous consequences of allowing user-controllable variables to influence file system operations, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1190 for exploiting vulnerabilities in web applications.