CVE-2014-2572 in Moodle
Summary
by MITRE
mod/assign/externallib.php in Moodle 2.6.x before 2.6.2 does not properly handle assignment web-service parameters, which might allow remote authenticated users to modify grade metadata via unspecified vectors.
If you want to get best quality of vulnerability data, you may have to visit VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/08/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-2572 affects Moodle version 2.6.x before 2.6.2 and resides within the mod/assign/externallib.php file. This issue represents a significant security flaw in the assignment management module's web service implementation that could potentially allow authenticated attackers to manipulate grade metadata. The vulnerability stems from improper handling of assignment web-service parameters, creating a pathway for unauthorized modifications to grade-related information within the learning management system.
The technical flaw manifests in the external library implementation that processes web service requests for assignment grading functionality. When authenticated users submit requests through the web service API, the system fails to properly validate or sanitize input parameters that control grade metadata modifications. This insufficient parameter validation creates opportunities for attackers to craft malicious requests that could alter grade records, potentially affecting student performance data and academic integrity within the platform. The unspecified vectors mentioned in the description suggest that multiple attack paths exist through different parameter combinations or request structures that could exploit this weakness.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data modification as it directly affects the integrity of academic records within Moodle. Attackers could potentially manipulate grade values, alter grading scales, or modify other metadata associated with assignments, leading to serious consequences for both students and educators. The remote authenticated nature of the exploit means that attackers do not need physical access to the system but can leverage their valid user credentials to perform unauthorized modifications. This vulnerability particularly impacts educational institutions that rely heavily on Moodle for grade management and student assessment tracking, potentially undermining trust in the system's data integrity.
Security professionals should note that this vulnerability aligns with CWE-20, which covers "Improper Input Validation," and could be categorized under ATT&CK technique T1078 for valid accounts and T1566 for social engineering attacks that leverage authenticated access. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including upgrading to Moodle 2.6.2 or later versions, which contain the necessary patches to address the parameter handling issues. Additionally, administrators should review and monitor web service usage patterns, implement proper access controls, and consider network-level monitoring to detect anomalous grade modification activities. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper input validation in web service implementations and demonstrates how seemingly minor parameter handling issues can lead to significant data integrity concerns in educational platforms.