CVE-2011-4278: Moodle XSS In Tag Autocomplete functionality

moodle/moodle Updated 02 Oct 2025

Summary

13/05/2022
Yes i
Moderate
Not published

CVE-2011-4278: Moodle XSS In Tag Autocomplete functionality. Affects moodle/moodle across 2 version ranges.

< 1.9.11 >= 2.0, < 2.0.2

Fixed in 1.9.11 or 2.0.2, depending on the release line you run. How to fix ↓

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Background

Moodle is an open-source learning management system (LMS) used for creating and delivering online courses. It provides a wide range of features for educators and learners, including content management, assessment tools, and collaborative learning environments. The tag autocomplete functionality in Moodle versions 1.9.x before 1.9.11 and 2.0.x before 2.0.2 is vulnerable to cross-site scripting (XSS) attacks. This vulnerability allows remote attackers to inject arbitrary web script or HTML into the application via unspecified vectors.

Vulnerability Detail

The tag autocomplete functionality in Moodle is susceptible to XSS attacks due to inadequate input sanitization. Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by injecting malicious code or HTML into the application, which can then be executed in the context of other users' browsers. This can lead to various consequences, such as session hijacking, defacement of web pages, or theft of sensitive information. The exact vectors for exploitation are unspecified in the available information.

How To Fix

Fixed versions by release line

The minimum fixed version depends on the release line you run.

  • < 1.9.11 1.9.11
    composer require moodle/moodle:1.9.11
  • >= 2.0, < 2.0.2 2.0.2
    composer require moodle/moodle:2.0.2

Tip — Not sure which release line you're on? Vulert can find the fix for the version you are using. Scan free →

Workaround

No specific workaround has been mentioned in the available information. However, as a general best practice, administrators can consider implementing a web application firewall (WAF) to detect and block malicious input. Additionally, regular security audits and code reviews can help identify and mitigate potential vulnerabilities.

Conclusion

The tag autocomplete functionality in Moodle versions 1.9.x before 1.9.11 and 2.0.x before 2.0.2 is vulnerable to cross-site scripting (XSS) attacks. It is crucial to upgrade to the fixed versions mentioned above to mitigate this vulnerability. Regular security audits and code reviews are also recommended to identify and address potential vulnerabilities. For further assistance and support in vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.

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FAQ

Moodle is an open-source learning management system (LMS) used for creating and delivering online courses. It provides a wide range of features for educators and learners, including content management, assessment tools, and collaborative learning environments.

Cross-site scripting (XSS) is a type of security vulnerability that allows attackers to inject malicious scripts into web pages viewed by other users. This can lead to various consequences, such as session hijacking, defacement of web pages, or theft of sensitive information.

The exact vectors for exploitation are unspecified in the available information. However, attackers can potentially exploit the tag autocomplete functionality in Moodle by injecting malicious code or HTML into the application.

Exploiting this vulnerability can lead to various consequences, such as session hijacking, defacement of web pages, or theft of sensitive information.

To fix this vulnerability, it is recommended to upgrade to a fixed version of Moodle. For Moodle 1.9.x, upgrading to version 1.9.11 or later is necessary. Similarly, for Moodle 2.0.x, upgrading to version 2.0.2 or later is required.

Related vulnerabilities

Recent vulnerabilities recorded for moodle/moodle.

How To Fix

Fixed versions by release line

The minimum fixed version depends on the release line you run.

  • < 1.9.11 1.9.11
    composer require moodle/moodle:1.9.11
  • >= 2.0, < 2.0.2 2.0.2
    composer require moodle/moodle:2.0.2

Tip — Not sure which release line you're on? Vulert can find the fix for the version you are using. Scan free →

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