CVE-2012-1159: Moodle included private user files in course backups

moodle/moodle Updated 02 Oct 2025

Summary

23/04/2022
Yes i
Moderate
4.3

CVE-2012-1159: Moodle included private user files in course backups. Affects moodle/moodle across 4 version ranges.

< 1.9.17 >= 2.0, < 2.0.8 >= 2.1, < 2.1.5 >= 2.2, < 2.2.2

Fixed in 4 releases; the minimum fixed version depends on the release line you run. How to fix ↓

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Background

Moodle is an open-source learning management system (LMS) used by educational institutions to create and manage online courses. It provides a platform for educators to deliver content, engage with students, and assess their progress. Moodle allows users to upload and store files, including private files that are only accessible to the user who uploaded them. These private files can contain sensitive information such as personal documents or confidential data. However, a vulnerability in Moodle versions before 2.2.2 allowed course backups to include users' private files, resulting in an information disclosure risk.

Vulnerability Detail

The vulnerability in Moodle versions before 2.2.2 allowed course backups to include users' private files. This means that when a course backup was created, it would also include any private files uploaded by users enrolled in the course. This information disclosure could lead to the exposure of sensitive data, such as personal documents or confidential information. The vulnerability was classified as moderate severity with a CVSS score of 4.3.

How To Fix

Fixed versions by release line

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

  • < 1.9.17 1.9.17
    composer require moodle/moodle:1.9.17
  • >= 2.0, < 2.0.8 2.0.8
    composer require moodle/moodle:2.0.8
  • >= 2.1, < 2.1.5 2.1.5
    composer require moodle/moodle:2.1.5
  • >= 2.2, < 2.2.2 2.2.2
    composer require moodle/moodle:2.2.2

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

Workaround

There is no known workaround for this vulnerability. It is essential to upgrade to the fixed version of Moodle to address the issue effectively.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Moodle versions before 2.2.2 are vulnerable to information disclosure due to course backups including users' private files. To mitigate this risk, it is crucial to upgrade Moodle to version 2.2.2 or later. This will ensure that course backups no longer include private files, protecting sensitive information. For further support on vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.

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FAQ

Moodle is an open-source learning management system (LMS) used by educational institutions to create and manage online courses.

The vulnerability allows course backups to include users' private files, potentially exposing sensitive information to unauthorized access.

Moodle versions before 2.2.2 are affected by this vulnerability.

To fix this vulnerability, upgrade Moodle to version 2.2.2 or later.

No, there is no known workaround. Upgrading to the fixed version is the recommended solution.

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.

  • < 1.9.17 1.9.17
    composer require moodle/moodle:1.9.17
  • >= 2.0, < 2.0.8 2.0.8
    composer require moodle/moodle:2.0.8
  • >= 2.1, < 2.1.5 2.1.5
    composer require moodle/moodle:2.1.5
  • >= 2.2, < 2.2.2 2.2.2
    composer require moodle/moodle:2.2.2

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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