CVE-2006-6078 in a-ConMan
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in common.inc.php in a-ConMan 3.2 beta allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the cm_basedir parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/28/2026
The vulnerability described in CVE-2006-6078 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw in the a-ConMan content management system version 3.2 beta. This vulnerability exists within the common.inc.php file where the cm_basedir parameter is processed without proper validation, creating an opportunity for remote attackers to inject and execute arbitrary PHP code on the target server. The flaw stems from the application's failure to sanitize user input before using it in file inclusion operations, which directly violates fundamental secure coding principles and opens the door to various malicious activities.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker manipulates the cm_basedir parameter to point to a remote URL containing malicious PHP code. When the application processes this parameter in common.inc.php, it attempts to include the specified file, thereby executing the attacker's code within the context of the web server. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an expression, and specifically relates to CWE-94, which covers inadequate control of generation of code. The vulnerability enables attackers to bypass normal access controls and potentially gain full control over the affected system.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it allows attackers to perform a wide range of malicious activities including data theft, server compromise, and establishment of persistent backdoors. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to upload additional malicious files, escalate privileges, or use the compromised server as a staging point for further attacks against other systems. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190, which describes exploiting vulnerabilities in remote services, and represents a classic example of how insecure input handling can lead to complete system compromise. The attack vector is particularly dangerous because it requires no authentication and can be exploited through simple HTTP requests.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability involve immediate patching of the a-ConMan application to version 3.2 or later, which contains the necessary security fixes. Administrators should implement input validation and sanitization measures to prevent unauthorized file inclusion operations, ensuring that all user-supplied parameters are properly validated before use. The principle of least privilege should be applied by restricting file inclusion capabilities to only trusted sources and implementing proper access controls. Additionally, network-level protections such as web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can help detect and prevent exploitation attempts. Organizations should also conduct regular security assessments and implement proper monitoring to identify and respond to potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of input validation and secure coding practices in preventing remote code execution attacks.