CVE-2024-3994 in Tutor LMS Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 04/25/2024
The Tutor LMS – eLearning and online course solution plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to Stored Cross-Site Scripting via the plugin's 'tutor_instructor_list' shortcode in all versions up to, and including, 2.6.2 due to insufficient input sanitization and output escaping on user supplied attributes. This makes it possible for authenticated attackers, with contributor-level access and above, to inject arbitrary web scripts in pages that will execute whenever a user accesses an injected page.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/03/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-3994 affects the Tutor LMS plugin for WordPress, specifically targeting the 'tutor_instructor_list' shortcode functionality. This represents a critical security flaw that undermines the integrity of WordPress-based learning management systems. The vulnerability exists in all versions up to and including 2.6.2, making it a widespread concern for organizations relying on this popular eLearning solution. The flaw stems from inadequate input sanitization and output escaping mechanisms within the plugin's codebase, creating a persistent security risk that can be exploited by malicious actors with relatively low privileges.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability allows authenticated attackers who possess contributor-level access or higher to inject malicious JavaScript code through the plugin's shortcode interface. This stored cross-site scripting vulnerability occurs when user-supplied attributes are not properly sanitized before being processed and rendered in web pages. The flaw specifically targets the 'tutor_instructor_list' shortcode, which is commonly used to display instructor information within WordPress environments. When an attacker injects malicious code through this vector, the script becomes permanently stored within the system and executes whenever any user accesses pages containing the compromised shortcode, creating a persistent threat that can affect multiple users over time.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script execution, as it provides attackers with the ability to perform various malicious activities within the compromised WordPress environment. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to steal user sessions, redirect victims to malicious websites, deface content, or even escalate privileges within the system. The fact that the vulnerability requires only contributor-level access makes it particularly dangerous, as it can be exploited by individuals who have moderate administrative capabilities within the WordPress system. This creates a significant risk for educational institutions and organizations that may not properly monitor or restrict contributor-level access to their learning management systems.
From a cybersecurity perspective, this vulnerability aligns with CWE-79, which describes Cross-Site Scripting flaws in software applications. The attack pattern follows typical XSS exploitation methods where malicious input is stored and later executed in the context of other users' browsers. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this as a technique involving code injection within web applications, potentially leading to privilege escalation and data exfiltration. Organizations should prioritize immediate remediation efforts, including updating to the latest plugin version that addresses this vulnerability. Additionally, implementing proper input validation, output encoding, and access control measures can help mitigate the risk of similar vulnerabilities in the future. Regular security audits and monitoring of plugin updates remain essential practices for maintaining WordPress security posture and preventing exploitation of such stored XSS vulnerabilities.