CVE-2023-4221 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

This CVE-2023-4221 was published by STAR Labs on November 28, 2023. It involves a command injection vulnerability in Chamilo LMS version 1.11.24 and below, which could allow users to execute remote code by uploading Learning Paths with special characters.

Understanding CVE-2023-4221

This vulnerability, known as Chamilo LMS Learning Path PPT2LP Command Injection Vulnerability, has a high impact with a CVSS base score of 7.2. It falls under the CAPEC-88 category - OS Command Injection. The issue was discovered by Ngo Wei Lin from STAR Labs SG Pte. Ltd.

What is CVE-2023-4221?

The CVE-2023-4221 vulnerability exists in the

main/lp/openoffice_presentation.class.php

file in Chamilo LMS versions equal to or lower than 1.11.24. It allows users with permission to upload Learning Paths to exploit the system and gain remote code execution through improper handling of special characters.

The Impact of CVE-2023-4221

This vulnerability has a high severity impact, affecting confidentiality, integrity, and availability. With a CVSS base score of 7.2, it poses a significant risk if exploited. The ability for unauthorized users to execute remote code can lead to a complete system compromise.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-4221

The vulnerability arises due to a command injection issue in the specific file mentioned above. Users with access to upload Learning Paths can manipulate special characters to execute malicious commands on the system.

Vulnerability Description

The flaw in Chamilo LMS version 1.11.24 and below allows attackers to inject and execute arbitrary commands through the improper handling of special characters in the mentioned file.

Affected Systems and Versions

Chamilo LMS versions up to and including 1.11.24 are impacted by this vulnerability. Users utilizing these versions are at risk of exploitation by malicious actors.

Exploitation Mechanism

By exploiting the command injection vulnerability in

main/lp/openoffice_presentation.class.php

, attackers can upload Learning Paths containing specially crafted characters to achieve remote code execution on the affected systems.

Mitigation and Prevention

It is crucial for organizations using Chamilo LMS to take immediate action to mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2023-4221.

Immediate Steps to Take

Upgrade to a patched version of Chamilo LMS that addresses the command injection vulnerability.
Restrict user permissions, especially those related to uploading Learning Paths, to minimize the attack surface.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch Chamilo LMS to address any potential security vulnerabilities.
Conduct security assessments and audits to identify and remediate any weaknesses in the system.

Patching and Updates

The vendor has released patches to fix the vulnerability. Organizations should apply these patches promptly to secure their Chamilo LMS installations.