CVE-2012-2366 in Moodle
Summary
by MITRE
mod/data/preset.php in Moodle 2.1.x before 2.1.6 and 2.2.x before 2.2.3 does not properly iterate through an array, which allows remote authenticated users to overwrite arbitrary database activity presets via unspecified vectors.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/06/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2012-2366 affects Moodle learning management systems version 2.1.x before 2.1.6 and 2.2.x before 2.2.3, specifically within the mod/data/preset.php component. This flaw represents a critical security weakness that stems from improper array iteration handling in the database activity preset management functionality. The vulnerability allows authenticated remote attackers to exploit a logic error in how the system processes array data structures when saving or updating activity presets. The technical implementation fails to properly validate or sanitize array indices during the preset processing workflow, creating an opportunity for malicious users to manipulate the system's behavior through crafted input parameters.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data manipulation as it enables attackers with valid user accounts to overwrite arbitrary database activity presets within the Moodle environment. This weakness falls under the CWE-129 category of Improper Validation of Array Index, which specifically addresses issues where array indices are not properly validated before being used to access array elements. The vulnerability operates through unspecified vectors that likely involve manipulating form parameters or API calls that trigger the flawed array iteration logic. Attackers can leverage this to potentially modify or delete existing presets, disrupt user activity tracking, or even inject malicious data that could affect other system components relying on these presets.
From an attack perspective, this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1078.004 for Valid Accounts and T1566.001 for Phishing, as it requires authentication to exploit but can be leveraged by attackers who have already gained access to legitimate user credentials. The exploitation process likely involves crafting specific array parameters that cause the system to iterate through array elements incorrectly, leading to unauthorized database modifications. The vulnerability's impact is particularly concerning in educational environments where Moodle systems contain sensitive user data, course materials, and assessment information. Organizations using affected Moodle versions face risks of data integrity compromise and potential disruption to learning activities that depend on properly configured activity presets.
The recommended mitigations for CVE-2012-2366 include immediate upgrade to Moodle versions 2.1.6 or 2.2.3 and later, which contain the necessary patches to address the array iteration flaw. System administrators should also implement additional security controls such as monitoring for unusual preset modification patterns and implementing proper input validation for all user-submitted data. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper array bounds checking and input sanitization in web applications, particularly in systems that handle user-generated content and configuration data. Organizations should conduct thorough security assessments of their Moodle installations to identify any potential exploitation attempts and ensure that all users have appropriate access controls and permissions to minimize the impact of such vulnerabilities.