CVE-2020-13144 in Open edX Ironwood
Summary
by MITRE
Studio in Open edX Ironwood 2.5, when CodeJail is not used, allows a user to go to the "Create New course>New section>New subsection>New unit>Add new component>Problem button>Advanced tab>Custom Python evaluated code" screen, edit the problem, and execute Python code. This leads to arbitrary code execution.
Once again VulDB remains the best source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/29/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2020-13144 represents a critical security flaw within the Open edX Ironwood 2.5 learning management system, specifically affecting the Studio component when CodeJail is not properly configured. This issue stems from inadequate input validation and execution controls within the course creation interface, creating a pathway for authenticated users to escalate privileges through malicious code injection. The vulnerability exists in the problem component configuration where users can navigate through multiple interface layers to reach the advanced code execution functionality without proper sandboxing mechanisms.
The technical exploitation occurs through a series of well-defined navigation steps within the Studio environment that bypasses normal security boundaries. Users can traverse from the standard course creation workflow to the advanced problem component settings where they gain access to a code editor for Python execution. This access point lacks proper code sanitization and execution restrictions that would normally be present in a secure sandboxed environment. The vulnerability specifically targets the absence of CodeJail, which serves as a crucial security boundary for Python code execution in Open edX environments. Without CodeJail, the system fails to enforce proper isolation and code validation, allowing malicious code to execute with the privileges of the web application process.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and far-reaching, as it enables arbitrary code execution that can lead to complete system compromise. An attacker with access to the Studio environment can execute any Python code they choose, potentially leading to data exfiltration, system modification, privilege escalation, or even full system takeover. The vulnerability affects all authenticated users within the system who have access to the course creation functionality, making it particularly dangerous in environments where multiple users have administrative or instructor privileges. This type of vulnerability directly violates security principles outlined in the OWASP Top Ten, specifically addressing the risk of code injection and insecure deserialization patterns that can lead to arbitrary code execution.
The security implications extend beyond immediate code execution to encompass broader system integrity concerns. The vulnerability can be leveraged to establish persistent backdoors, modify course content in malicious ways, or access sensitive user data stored within the system. This flaw represents a significant weakness in the application's defense-in-depth strategy, as it demonstrates that proper input validation and execution controls are not consistently applied across all components of the system. The vulnerability also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.006 for Python execution and CWE-94 which describes weaknesses in the code that allow for arbitrary code execution. Organizations using Open edX without proper CodeJail implementation face substantial risk of compromise, particularly in educational environments where multiple users may have elevated privileges.
Mitigation strategies should focus on implementing proper CodeJail configuration as the primary defense mechanism, ensuring that all Python code execution is properly sandboxed and restricted. System administrators should enforce strict access controls and privilege management to limit who can create or modify course components. Additionally, implementing comprehensive input validation, code review processes, and regular security assessments can help detect and prevent similar vulnerabilities. The system should be configured to disable or restrict access to the advanced Python code execution features unless explicitly required and properly secured. Organizations should also consider implementing network segmentation and monitoring solutions to detect suspicious code execution patterns. Regular updates and patches to Open edX should be applied promptly to address known vulnerabilities and maintain system security posture. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper security configuration and the critical role that sandboxing mechanisms play in preventing privilege escalation attacks.