CVE-2025-3641: Remote Code Execution Risk in Moodle LMS Dropbox Repository

Overview

The vulnerability, known as CVE-2025-3641, is a critical flaw identified in Moodle’s Learning Management System (LMS). Specifically, the flaw resides in the Dropbox repository, posing a risk for remote code execution. This vulnerability is significant as it could enable an attacker to compromise the system or leak data. Moodle, being a widely used LMS platform, makes this vulnerability a crucial one to address. The flaw is particularly critical in educational institutions and corporations where Moodle is used extensively, potentially exposing sensitive information to cyber threats.

Vulnerability Summary

CVE ID: CVE-2025-3641
Severity: High (8.8 CVSS Severity Score)
Attack Vector: Network
Privileges Required: High (Teacher/Manager level)
User Interaction: Required
Impact: Potential system compromise or data leakage

Affected Products

Product | Affected Versions

Moodle LMS | All versions with Dropbox repository enabled

How the Exploit Works

The exploit takes advantage of the flaw within the Dropbox repository in the Moodle LMS. An attacker with teacher or manager level permissions can inject malicious code into the repository. When the code is executed, it can lead to system compromise or data leakage. This vulnerability can be exploited remotely, adding to its severity.

Conceptual Example Code

Below is a theoretical example of how the vulnerability might be exploited. This is a pseudocode representation and may not work in a real-world scenario.

# Malicious user with teacher/manager level privileges
login_as_teacher_or_manager()
# Navigate to the Moodle Dropbox repository
navigate_to_dropbox_repository()
# Inject malicious code
inject_code("""
import os
# This could be any malicious code
os.system('rm -rf /') # This command would delete all files in the system
""")
# Execute the malicious code
execute_injected_code()

Mitigation Guidance

To mitigate the impact of this vulnerability, it is recommended to apply the vendor patch as soon as it becomes available. In the interim, usage of Web Application Firewalls (WAFs) or Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS) can provide temporary mitigation. However, these should not be used as a permanent solution, and applying the vendor patch should be a priority.