CVE-2024-2411 in MasterStudy LMS Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 03/29/2024
The MasterStudy LMS plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to Local File Inclusion in all versions up to, and including, 3.3.0 via the 'modal' parameter. This makes it possible for unauthenticated attackers to include and execute arbitrary files on the server, allowing the execution of any PHP code in those files. This can be used to bypass access controls, obtain sensitive data, or achieve code execution in cases where images and other “safe” file types can be uploaded and included.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/14/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-2411 affects the MasterStudy LMS plugin for WordPress, representing a critical local file inclusion flaw that has been present in all versions up to and including 3.3.0. This security weakness manifests through the 'modal' parameter which is improperly validated and sanitized within the plugin's codebase, creating an attack vector that allows unauthenticated remote adversaries to manipulate file inclusion mechanisms. The flaw operates at the core level of the plugin's file handling functionality, where user-supplied input directly influences the server's file system operations without adequate security controls or validation measures. This vulnerability classification aligns with CWE-22 which specifically addresses improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal attacks, and represents a fundamental weakness in input validation and access control mechanisms.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability enables attackers to include and execute arbitrary files on the affected WordPress server, effectively granting them the ability to run any PHP code contained within those files. This code execution capability provides adversaries with extensive control over the compromised system, allowing them to bypass existing access controls and authentication mechanisms that should normally protect sensitive resources. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it can be exploited without requiring any valid credentials or authentication, making it accessible to anyone who can interact with the vulnerable plugin's functionality. Attackers can leverage this weakness to upload malicious files, including images and other seemingly safe file types that can then be included and executed through the vulnerable parameter, creating a sophisticated attack chain that can be used for data exfiltration, system compromise, or further network infiltration.
The operational impact of CVE-2024-2411 extends beyond simple code execution, as it fundamentally undermines the security posture of WordPress installations using the affected MasterStudy LMS plugin. Organizations running vulnerable versions face significant risks including unauthorized access to sensitive educational data, potential system compromise, and the possibility of using the compromised server as a staging ground for further attacks within their network infrastructure. The vulnerability's exploitation can lead to complete system takeover, data breaches, and the deployment of backdoors or other persistent malware. This risk is amplified in educational environments where the MasterStudy LMS is commonly used for managing student records, course materials, and other sensitive information. The attack surface is particularly broad since the vulnerability affects all versions up to 3.3.0, meaning that any organization using these plugin versions is potentially at risk.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2024-2411 must focus on immediate remediation actions including the urgent upgrade to the latest version of the MasterStudy LMS plugin where the vulnerability has been addressed through proper input validation and parameter sanitization. System administrators should implement network-level restrictions to limit access to the vulnerable plugin endpoints and consider implementing web application firewalls that can detect and block malicious requests targeting the specific 'modal' parameter. Additionally, organizations should conduct comprehensive security assessments of their WordPress installations to identify other potential vulnerabilities and ensure that all plugins and themes are regularly updated and maintained. The implementation of proper input validation controls, including the use of allowlists for file inclusion parameters, should be enforced across all application components to prevent similar vulnerabilities from occurring in the future. This vulnerability demonstrates the importance of following secure coding practices and adhering to established security frameworks such as those outlined in the OWASP Top Ten and NIST cybersecurity guidelines to prevent the introduction of dangerous input handling mechanisms into web applications.