CVE-2017-1000002 in ATutor
Summary
by MITRE
ATutor versions 2.2.1 and earlier are vulnerable to a directory traversal and file extension check bypass in the Course component resulting in code execution. ATutor versions 2.2.1 and earlier are vulnerable to a directory traversal vulnerability in the Course Icon component resulting in information disclosure.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/26/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-1000002 affects ATutor learning management systems version 2.2.1 and earlier, presenting a critical security risk through multiple attack vectors within the Course component. This vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and improper file handling mechanisms that allow malicious actors to exploit directory traversal paths and bypass file extension checks. The flaw exists in the Course Icon component where attackers can manipulate file paths to access restricted directories and potentially disclose sensitive information. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-22 Directory Traversal and CWE-77 Improper Neutralization of Special Elements used in a Command, which are fundamental weaknesses in web application security that enable unauthorized access to system resources.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability involves manipulating file upload and path resolution mechanisms within ATutor's Course component to bypass security controls designed to prevent arbitrary code execution. Attackers can leverage directory traversal techniques to navigate beyond intended file system boundaries, allowing them to access or modify files that should remain protected. The file extension check bypass enables malicious code execution by permitting the upload of files with dangerous extensions that would normally be rejected by the system's validation processes. This dual nature of the vulnerability creates a pathway for both information disclosure and arbitrary code execution, making it particularly dangerous for web applications that handle sensitive educational data.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-1000002 extends beyond simple data exposure to potentially enable complete system compromise through remote code execution. Organizations using vulnerable ATutor versions face risks of unauthorized access to student records, course materials, and administrative functions. The information disclosure component can reveal sensitive system details including file structures, user credentials, and configuration data that could be leveraged for further attacks. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1059 Command and Scripting Interpreter and T1083 File and Directory Discovery, representing the techniques used to establish persistence and gather intelligence. The vulnerability also corresponds to T1190 Exploit Public-Facing Application, highlighting the attack surface through which adversaries can gain initial access to affected systems.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patching of ATutor installations to versions that address the directory traversal and file validation issues. Organizations should implement strict file upload controls with comprehensive extension validation, enforce proper access controls, and monitor for suspicious file access patterns. Network segmentation and web application firewalls can provide additional layers of protection by filtering malicious requests before they reach the vulnerable application components. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify similar weaknesses in other components of the learning management system. The remediation process should include thorough testing of patched versions to ensure that the security controls remain effective while maintaining system functionality. System administrators should also establish monitoring procedures to detect unauthorized access attempts and implement proper incident response protocols to address potential exploitation attempts.