CVE-2023-4222 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

This CVE-2023-4222, assigned by STAR Labs, was published on November 28, 2023. It involves a command injection vulnerability in Chamilo LMS version 1.11.24 and below, allowing users to execute remote code by uploading Learning Paths.

Understanding CVE-2023-4222

This vulnerability in Chamilo LMS exposes a serious threat due to its potential for remote code execution through improper handling of special characters during the upload of Learning Paths.

What is CVE-2023-4222?

The CVE-2023-4222 vulnerability specifically resides in the

main/lp/openoffice_text_document.class.php

file of Chamilo LMS version 1.11.24 and earlier. Attackers with upload permissions for Learning Paths can exploit this issue to execute commands remotely.

The Impact of CVE-2023-4222

The impact of CVE-2023-4222 is rated as high severity across various aspects. It falls under CAPEC-88 - OS Command Injection, indicating the potential for significant harm through unauthorized execution of commands.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-4222

This vulnerability is evaluated with a CVSSv3.1 base score of 7.2, classifying it as a high-risk issue. The attack complexity is low, but the impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability is considered high.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from the improper neutralization of special characters in the affected file, enabling attackers to inject malicious commands and achieve remote code execution.

Affected Systems and Versions

Chamilo LMS versions up to 1.11.24 are impacted by this vulnerability, exposing users of these versions to the risk of command injection and subsequent remote code execution.

Exploitation Mechanism

Exploiting CVE-2023-4222 involves uploading Learning Paths with specially crafted commands that, when processed incorrectly by the system, lead to the execution of unauthorized code.

Mitigation and Prevention

Addressing CVE-2023-4222 requires immediate action to secure affected systems and prevent potential exploitation.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users are advised to update Chamilo LMS to a secure version beyond 1.11.24. Additionally, limiting user permissions and input validation can reduce the risk of command injection attacks.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implementing secure coding practices, conducting regular security audits, and staying informed about the latest vulnerabilities are crucial for maintaining long-term security against similar threats.

Patching and Updates

The vendors have released patches for CVE-2023-4222, available for implementation through the provided GitHub links. Applying these patches promptly is essential to remediate the vulnerability and enhance system security.