CVE-2014-9060 in Moodle
Summary
by MITRE
The LTI module in Moodle through 2.4.11, 2.5.x before 2.5.9, 2.6.x before 2.6.6, and 2.7.x before 2.7.3 does not properly restrict the parameters used in a return URL, which allows remote attackers to trigger the generation of arbitrary messages via a modified URL, related to mod/lti/locallib.php and mod/lti/return.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/04/2022
The vulnerability described in CVE-2014-9060 affects the Learning Tools Interoperability (LTI) module within Moodle, a widely used open-source learning management system. This security flaw exists across multiple versions of Moodle including 2.4.11 and earlier, 2.5.x versions before 2.5.9, 2.6.x versions before 2.6.6, and 2.7.x versions before 2.7.3. The issue stems from insufficient parameter validation in the LTI integration functionality, specifically within the mod/lti/locallib.php and mod/lti/return.php files. The vulnerability allows remote attackers to manipulate URL parameters that control the return URL behavior, creating a path for unauthorized message generation within the system.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the improper handling of parameters in the LTI return URL mechanism. When Moodle processes LTI requests, it uses specific parameters to construct return URLs that direct users back to the learning management system after interacting with external tools. The flaw occurs because the system fails to properly sanitize or validate these parameters before incorporating them into the return URL construction process. Attackers can craft malicious URLs with modified parameters that bypass normal validation checks, enabling them to manipulate the system into generating arbitrary messages or performing unintended actions. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-20, which describes improper input validation, and represents a classic case of insecure parameter handling in web applications.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is significant for educational institutions relying on Moodle for their learning management needs. Remote attackers who can access the vulnerable LTI endpoints can potentially inject malicious parameters into URLs, leading to unauthorized message generation and possible data manipulation within the system. This could result in various security consequences including information disclosure, unauthorized access to course materials, or manipulation of user sessions. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it allows attackers to exploit the LTI integration feature without requiring authentication, making it accessible to anyone who can craft malicious URLs. This represents a critical weakness in the system's access control mechanisms and could be leveraged for more sophisticated attacks within the broader Moodle ecosystem.
Organizations using affected Moodle versions should immediately implement the available patches and updates provided by Moodle developers to address this vulnerability. The recommended mitigation strategy involves upgrading to patched versions of Moodle where the LTI parameter validation has been strengthened. Additionally, system administrators should review and monitor LTI integration configurations to ensure that only trusted external tools are configured for use within the learning management system. Network-level controls such as web application firewalls and URL filtering can provide additional layers of protection while the primary patches are being deployed. Security monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual patterns in LTI-related URL access and message generation activities. This vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation in web applications and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1078 for valid accounts and T1566 for credential access through social engineering, as it could potentially be exploited to gain unauthorized access to system functionality.