CVE-2016-2154: Moodle - Discover Hidden Course Names

moodle/moodle Updated 02 Oct 2025

Summary

13/05/2022
Yes i
Moderate
4.3

CVE-2016-2154: Moodle allows attackers to discover hidden course names. Affects moodle/moodle across 3 version ranges.

>= 2.8.0, < 2.8.11 >= 2.9.0, < 2.9.5 >= 3.0.0, < 3.0.3

Fixed in 2.8.11, 2.9.5 or 3.0.3, 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 by educational institutions to create and manage online courses. It provides a platform for educators to deliver content, interact with students, and track their progress. Moodle is widely adopted and offers a range of features to support online learning. However, a vulnerability has been identified in versions 2.8.x to 2.8.11, 2.9.x to 2.9.5, and 3.0.x to 3.0.3 of Moodle that allows remote authenticated users to discover hidden course names by subscribing to a rule in the Event Monitor tool.

Vulnerability Detail

The vulnerability arises from a flaw in the Event Monitor tool in Moodle. The tool does not consider the 'moodle/course:viewhiddencourses' capability, which should restrict access to hidden course names. As a result, authenticated users can exploit this oversight and subscribe to a rule that reveals the hidden course names. This can lead to a breach of privacy and compromise the confidentiality of sensitive course information. The impact of this vulnerability is considered moderate, 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.

  • >= 2.8.0, < 2.8.11 2.8.11
    composer require moodle/moodle:2.8.11
  • >= 2.9.0, < 2.9.5 2.9.5
    composer require moodle/moodle:2.9.5
  • >= 3.0.0, < 3.0.3 3.0.3
    composer require moodle/moodle:3.0.3

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 apply the recommended upgrades to mitigate the risk effectively.

Conclusion

The identified vulnerability in Moodle allows authenticated users to discover hidden course names, potentially compromising the privacy and confidentiality of sensitive course information. It is crucial to apply the recommended upgrades to ensure the protection of hidden course names. 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 by educational institutions to create and manage online courses.

The Event Monitor tool in Moodle allows administrators to monitor and track events within the LMS, such as user activity and system events.

This vulnerability allows authenticated users to discover hidden course names, compromising the privacy and confidentiality of sensitive course information.

The vulnerability is considered moderate, with a CVSS score of 4.3.

To fix this vulnerability, it is recommended to upgrade to the latest version of Moodle as specified in the 'how_to_fix' section.

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.

  • >= 2.8.0, < 2.8.11 2.8.11
    composer require moodle/moodle:2.8.11
  • >= 2.9.0, < 2.9.5 2.9.5
    composer require moodle/moodle:2.9.5
  • >= 3.0.0, < 3.0.3 3.0.3
    composer require moodle/moodle:3.0.3

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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