CVE-2011-4300 in Moodle
Summary
by MITRE
The file_browser component in Moodle 2.0.x before 2.0.5 and 2.1.x before 2.1.2 does not properly restrict access to category and course data, which allows remote attackers to obtain potentially sensitive information via a request for a file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/05/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2011-4300 affects Moodle versions 2.0.x prior to 2.0.5 and 2.1.x prior to 2.1.2, specifically within the file_browser component. This issue represents a critical access control flaw that undermines the security model of the learning management system. The vulnerability stems from insufficient validation of user permissions when processing file requests, creating a pathway for unauthorized information disclosure. Attackers can exploit this weakness by crafting malicious requests that bypass normal access restrictions, potentially gaining visibility into category and course data that should be restricted to authorized users only.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability resides in the file_browser module's inadequate input validation and permission checking mechanisms. When a user makes a request for a file, the system fails to properly verify whether the requester has appropriate authorization to access the specific category or course data being requested. This flaw allows remote attackers to enumerate and access sensitive educational content, including course materials, assignment data, and other institutional information. The vulnerability operates at the application level and does not require authentication to exploit, making it particularly dangerous in environments where Moodle is accessible to unauthenticated users. The underlying cause aligns with CWE-284, which describes improper access control vulnerabilities where systems fail to properly enforce authorization checks.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure to potentially compromise the integrity and confidentiality of educational data. Educational institutions using affected Moodle versions face significant risks including unauthorized access to student records, course content theft, and potential exposure of sensitive academic information. Attackers could systematically enumerate courses and categories to build comprehensive maps of institutional learning environments, facilitating further attacks or data exfiltration. The vulnerability affects the core functionality of Moodle's access control system, undermining the trust model that educational platforms rely upon to protect student privacy and institutional data. Organizations may experience regulatory compliance issues and reputational damage if sensitive educational data is compromised through this vector.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2011-4300 require immediate implementation of the vendor-supplied security patches and updates to Moodle versions 2.0.5 and 2.1.2 respectively. System administrators should conduct thorough vulnerability assessments to ensure all instances of the affected software have been updated, as the vulnerability affects core system functionality. Organizations should implement additional monitoring measures to detect unusual file access patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. The remediation process should include reviewing and strengthening access control policies within Moodle, ensuring proper user role assignments, and implementing network-level restrictions to limit access to the file_browser component. Security teams should also consider implementing web application firewalls to detect and block malicious file request patterns. This vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of timely patch management and proper access control implementation in educational technology platforms. The incident highlights the need for continuous security monitoring and adherence to security best practices as outlined in the MITRE ATT&CK framework for protecting educational technology infrastructure against information disclosure threats.