CVE-2023-5550 : What You Need to Know

This CVE, assigned by Fedora, involves a risk of remote code execution (RCE) due to a local file include vulnerability in misconfigured shared hosting environments.

Understanding CVE-2023-5550

This vulnerability affects Moodle users who have direct access to the web server outside of the Moodle webroot in a shared hosting environment. It can allow attackers to achieve remote code execution by exploiting a local file include vulnerability.

What is CVE-2023-5550?

CVE-2023-5550 involves a scenario where a Moodle user with access to other users' content in a misconfigured shared hosting environment can exploit a local file include vulnerability to execute remote code on the server.

The Impact of CVE-2023-5550

The impact of this vulnerability is rated as moderate. It has a CVSS base score of 6.5, indicating a medium severity level. While the confidentiality and integrity impacts are low, the attack complexity is considered low as well.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-5550

This section delves into the specifics of the vulnerability, including its description, affected systems, versions, and the exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

In a misconfigured shared hosting environment, a Moodle user can use a local file include to access the web server outside of the Moodle webroot and execute remote code, leading to potential security risks.

Affected Systems and Versions

The vulnerability impacts Moodle versions such as 4.2.3, 4.1.6, 4.0.11, 3.11.17, and 3.9.24. Additionally, Extra Packages for Enterprise Linux 7 and Fedora versions that include the Moodle package are also affected.

Exploitation Mechanism

By exploiting the misconfiguration that allows access to other users' content in the shared hosting environment, an attacker can manipulate a local file include to execute remote code on the server.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2023-5550, immediate steps should be taken to mitigate the risk and prevent potential exploitation. Long-term security practices and patching/updating guidelines are essential for safeguarding systems.

Immediate Steps to Take

It is recommended to restrict access within shared hosting environments, review Moodle configurations for any misconfigurations, and monitor for any unauthorized file inclusions to mitigate the risk of remote code execution.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implementing strong access controls, regularly auditing system configurations, and educating users about secure coding practices can help prevent similar vulnerabilities in the future within shared hosting environments.

Patching and Updates

Users are advised to apply security patches released by Moodle and Fedora promptly to address the vulnerability and reduce the likelihood of exploitation by malicious actors. Regularly updating software components is crucial for maintaining a secure environment.