CVE-2026-12116 in Online Tools
Summary
by MITRE • 07/09/2026
A vulnerability in the Xerte Online Tools allows for RCE through the antivirus binary path in the tools server settings, which can be changed to a PHP interpreter, allowing an attacker to upload PHP data that will then be executed.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/09/2026
The vulnerability under examination resides within the Xerte Online Tools platform, a widely used web-based educational authoring environment that enables users to create interactive learning objects. This particular weakness represents a critical remote code execution flaw that stems from insufficient input validation and improper handling of binary paths within the server configuration settings. The attack vector exploits a design flaw where administrative users can modify the antivirus binary path setting, which is typically intended for security scanning purposes but becomes a dangerous entry point when misconfigured.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs through a combination of path manipulation and code execution chaining. When an attacker gains access to the server configuration interface, they can alter the antivirus binary path field to point toward a PHP interpreter instead of a legitimate antivirus executable. This seemingly innocuous configuration change creates a critical security breach because the system then treats all uploaded files as executable content rather than mere data. The vulnerability specifically demonstrates characteristics consistent with CWE-74 and CWE-94, where improper input validation leads to code injection and execution flaws within server-side applications. The flaw essentially transforms a legitimate system component into an attack surface by allowing arbitrary command execution through file upload mechanisms.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple data compromise, as it enables full system control for authenticated attackers with administrative privileges. Once exploited, the vulnerability allows threat actors to execute arbitrary PHP code on the target server, potentially leading to complete system takeover, data exfiltration, and persistent backdoor installation. The attack requires minimal privileges since it targets administrative configuration settings rather than requiring complex exploitation techniques. This makes the vulnerability particularly dangerous in educational environments where multiple users may have administrative access or where proper privilege management is not enforced.
Mitigation strategies should focus on implementing strict input validation for all configurable paths within the system, enforcing principle of least privilege for administrative functions, and establishing robust file upload restrictions. Organizations should implement mandatory access controls that prevent modification of critical system paths by unauthorized users, while also deploying web application firewalls to monitor and block suspicious path manipulation attempts. The remediation process must include disabling the ability to change antivirus binary paths through user interfaces, implementing proper sanitization of all configuration inputs, and conducting regular security audits of system configurations. Additionally, this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059 which covers command and script injection, while also demonstrating characteristics of T1548.001 related to privilege escalation through valid accounts, making comprehensive defensive measures essential for protecting against both immediate exploitation and potential lateral movement within compromised networks.