CVE-2018-1137: Moodle Portfolio script allows instantiation of class chosen by user

moodle/moodle Updated 02 Oct 2025

Summary

14/05/2022
Yes i
High
8.1

CVE-2018-1137: Moodle Portfolio script allows instantiation of class chosen by user. Affects moodle/moodle across 4 version ranges.

>= 3.1, < 3.1.12 >= 3.2, < 3.2.9 >= 3.3, < 3.3.6 >= 3.4, < 3.4.3

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 used by educational institutions worldwide. It provides a platform for creating and managing online courses, allowing educators to deliver content and interact with students. The Moodle package, specifically versions 3.1 to 3.4, is affected by a vulnerability that allows users to instantiate any class by substituting URLs in portfolios. This vulnerability can be exploited by both authenticated users and guests, potentially leading to a distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attack.

Vulnerability Detail

The vulnerability in Moodle allows users to manipulate URLs in portfolios, enabling the instantiation of any class. This means that an attacker can execute arbitrary code and potentially disrupt the system. The impact of this vulnerability is significant, as it can be leveraged by both authenticated users and guests to cause a DDoS attack. The vulnerability has a CVSS score of 8.1, indicating a high severity level.

How To Fix

Fixed versions by release line

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

  • >= 3.1, < 3.1.12 3.1.12
    composer require moodle/moodle:3.1.12
  • >= 3.2, < 3.2.9 3.2.9
    composer require moodle/moodle:3.2.9
  • >= 3.3, < 3.3.6 3.3.6
    composer require moodle/moodle:3.3.6
  • >= 3.4, < 3.4.3 3.4.3
    composer require moodle/moodle:3.4.3

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 specific workaround mentioned for this vulnerability. The recommended approach is to apply the available patches or upgrade to the fixed versions of Moodle.

Conclusion

The vulnerability in Moodle allows users to instantiate any class, posing a significant risk to the system's security. It is crucial to apply the available patches or upgrade to the fixed versions to mitigate this vulnerability. For further support on vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.

See every vulnerability recorded for moodle/moodle →

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FAQ

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

The vulnerability allows users to instantiate any class, potentially leading to a DDoS attack and disruption of the Moodle system.

Both authenticated users and guests can exploit this vulnerability.

To fix this vulnerability, upgrade to the patched versions of Moodle (3.1.12, 3.2.9, 3.3.6, or 3.4.3).

There is no specific workaround mentioned. Applying the patches or upgrading to fixed versions is recommended.

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.

  • >= 3.1, < 3.1.12 3.1.12
    composer require moodle/moodle:3.1.12
  • >= 3.2, < 3.2.9 3.2.9
    composer require moodle/moodle:3.2.9
  • >= 3.3, < 3.3.6 3.3.6
    composer require moodle/moodle:3.3.6
  • >= 3.4, < 3.4.3 3.4.3
    composer require moodle/moodle:3.4.3

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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