CVE-2024-1505 is a vulnerability classified under CWE-269 (Improper Privilege Management) found in the Academy LMS plugin for WordPress, a popular eLearning and online course solution. The vulnerability exists in all versions up to and including 1.9.19 due to the saved_user_info() function allowing arbitrary updates to user meta data. This flaw permits authenticated users with low-level permissions, such as students, to escalate their privileges to administrator by manipulating user meta information that controls roles and capabilities. The vulnerability requires no user interaction and can be exploited remotely over the network, as indicated by the CVSS vector (AV:N/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H). The impact includes full compromise of the WordPress site, allowing attackers to modify content, install malicious plugins, exfiltrate sensitive data, or disrupt service. Although no public exploits have been reported yet, the vulnerability’s nature and ease of exploitation make it a critical risk for any organization using this plugin. The lack of a patch link suggests that a fix may not yet be publicly available, emphasizing the need for immediate risk mitigation strategies.

The vulnerability allows attackers with minimal authenticated access to gain full administrative control over the affected WordPress site. This can lead to complete compromise of the website’s confidentiality, integrity, and availability. Attackers could install backdoors, manipulate course content, steal user data including personal and payment information, disrupt eLearning services, or use the compromised site as a pivot point for further attacks within an organization’s network. For educational institutions, this could result in loss of trust, regulatory penalties, and significant operational disruption. The broad user base of WordPress and the popularity of Academy LMS in eLearning environments amplify the potential global impact. Organizations relying on this plugin for critical training or educational delivery face heightened risk of data breaches and service outages.

1. Immediately restrict access to the Academy LMS plugin settings and user management areas to trusted administrators only. 2. Monitor and audit user role changes and user meta updates for suspicious activity. 3. Disable or remove the Academy LMS plugin if a patch is not yet available and if feasible, until a secure version is released. 4. Implement Web Application Firewall (WAF) rules to detect and block attempts to exploit the saved_user_info() function. 5. Enforce strong authentication and multi-factor authentication (MFA) for all administrative accounts. 6. Regularly back up WordPress sites and databases to enable quick recovery in case of compromise. 7. Stay informed through vendor advisories and apply security patches promptly once released. 8. Consider isolating the LMS environment from other critical systems to limit lateral movement if compromised.