Moodle: Bypass File-Management Restrictions
Summary
CVE-2015-3181: Moodle allows attackers to bypass file-management restrictions. Affects moodle/moodle across 3 version ranges.
< 2.6.11
>= 2.7.0, < 2.7.8
>= 2.8.0, < 2.8.6
Fixed in 2.6.11, 2.7.8 or 2.8.6, 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 platform for educators to create interactive and collaborative learning environments. Moodle allows users to upload and manage files, with various file-management restrictions in place to ensure data security and privacy.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability (GHSA-622h-cjgg-5mx6) in Moodle versions 2.5.9 through 2.8.5 allows remote authenticated users to bypass file-management restrictions. The issue arises from the files/externallib.php file, which does not consider the moodle/user:manageownfiles capability before approving a private-file upload. This oversight enables attackers to use web services to perform uploads even after the capability has been revoked. As a result, attackers can bypass intended file-management restrictions and potentially access or modify files they should not have permission to.
How To Fix
Fixed versions by release line
The minimum fixed version depends on the release line you run.
-
< 2.6.112.6.11composer require moodle/moodle:2.6.11 -
>= 2.7.0, < 2.7.82.7.8composer require moodle/moodle:2.7.8 -
>= 2.8.0, < 2.8.62.8.6composer require moodle/moodle:2.8.6
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 specific workaround provided for this vulnerability. It is advised to upgrade to the fixed versions mentioned above.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the vulnerability in Moodle versions 2.5.9 through 2.8.5 allows remote authenticated users to bypass file-management restrictions. Upgrading to the fixed versions (2.6.11, 2.7.8, or 2.8.6) is crucial to mitigate this vulnerability. For further support on vulnerability remediation, you can contact DevNack.com.
See every vulnerability recorded for moodle/moodle →
FAQ
Moodle is an open-source learning management system (LMS) used for creating and delivering online courses. It provides a platform for educators to create interactive and collaborative learning environments.
The vulnerability allows remote authenticated users to bypass file-management restrictions in Moodle. Attackers can upload files even after their file-management capabilities have been revoked, potentially accessing or modifying files they should not have permission to.
To fix this vulnerability, it is recommended to upgrade to the latest version of Moodle (2.6.11, 2.7.8, or 2.8.6). These versions address the issue by properly considering the moodle/user:manageownfiles capability before approving private-file uploads.
No specific workaround is provided for this vulnerability. Upgrading to the fixed versions is the recommended solution.
For more information about this vulnerability, you can refer to the GitHub Advisory Database entry: [link to the advisory]
References
Related vulnerabilities
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