CVE-2011-4291: Moodle Denial of Service via Invalid Database Records
Summary
CVE-2011-4291: Moodle allows remote authenticated users to cause a denial of service (invalid database records). Affects moodle/moodle versions >= 2.0.0, < 2.0.3. Fixed in 2.0.3. How to fix ↓
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Background
Moodle is an open-source learning platform designed to provide educators, administrators, and learners with a single robust, secure, and integrated system to create personalized learning environments. It offers a wide range of features including course management, user management, and various assessment tools. However, certain versions of Moodle are vulnerable to a denial of service attack due to improper handling of database records, allowing authenticated users to exploit this flaw.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2011-4291 affects Moodle versions 2.0.x prior to 2.0.3. It allows remote authenticated users to cause a denial of service by executing a series of crafted ratings operations that lead to the creation of invalid database records. This can disrupt the normal functioning of the application, potentially affecting all users and leading to significant downtime.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
2.0.3
This is the first release that contains the fix.
composer require moodle/moodle:2.0.3Tip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
As a temporary workaround, you can limit the permissions of authenticated users to prevent them from executing ratings operations until the update is applied. This can be done by adjusting user roles and capabilities in the Moodle administration settings.
Conclusion
In summary, CVE-2011-4291 is a significant vulnerability in Moodle that can lead to denial of service through crafted ratings operations. It is crucial for users of affected versions to update to 2.0.3 or later to mitigate this risk. Temporary workarounds can be employed to limit exposure until the update is completed.
See every vulnerability recorded for moodle/moodle →
FAQ
CVE-2011-4291 is a vulnerability in Moodle that allows authenticated users to cause a denial of service through invalid database records.
Moodle versions 2.0.x before 2.0.3 are affected by this vulnerability.
You can use the Vulert playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected by this vulnerability without needing to sign up.
The vulnerability can lead to a denial of service, disrupting the normal operation of Moodle and affecting all users.
If an immediate update is not possible, consider limiting user permissions to prevent exploitation of the vulnerability until a patch can be applied.
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