CVE-2024-4318 is a critical SQL Injection vulnerability identified in the Tutor LMS plugin for WordPress, a widely used eLearning and online course management solution. The vulnerability exists due to insufficient escaping and lack of proper parameterization of the 'question_id' parameter in SQL queries within the plugin, specifically in versions up to and including 2.7.0. This flaw allows authenticated attackers with Instructor-level permissions or higher to perform time-based SQL Injection attacks by injecting malicious SQL code into the 'question_id' parameter. Because the plugin fails to properly neutralize special SQL elements, attackers can append additional SQL commands to existing queries, enabling them to extract sensitive information from the backend database, such as user data, course content, or credentials. The attack vector requires network access but no user interaction beyond authentication, increasing the risk in environments where multiple users have elevated privileges. The CVSS v3.1 score of 8.8 reflects the high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, combined with low attack complexity and no need for user interaction. Although no known exploits have been observed in the wild, the vulnerability's presence in a popular WordPress LMS plugin makes it a significant threat to educational institutions and organizations relying on Tutor LMS for online learning. The lack of an official patch at the time of disclosure necessitates immediate attention to mitigation strategies.

The impact of CVE-2024-4318 is substantial for organizations using the Tutor LMS plugin. Successful exploitation can lead to unauthorized disclosure of sensitive data stored in the LMS database, including personal information of students and instructors, course materials, and potentially administrative credentials. This compromises confidentiality and can lead to data breaches with legal and reputational consequences. Integrity is also at risk, as attackers might modify or delete course data or user records, disrupting educational operations. Availability could be affected if attackers execute destructive SQL commands or cause database corruption. Since exploitation requires only Instructor-level privileges, insider threats or compromised instructor accounts significantly increase risk. The vulnerability can facilitate lateral movement within the network if attackers gain database access, potentially escalating to broader system compromise. Educational institutions, training providers, and enterprises using Tutor LMS face operational disruption and compliance violations if this vulnerability is exploited.

To mitigate CVE-2024-4318, organizations should immediately upgrade Tutor LMS to a patched version once available. Until a patch is released, administrators should restrict Instructor-level permissions to trusted users only and audit existing accounts for suspicious activity. Employ Web Application Firewalls (WAFs) with custom rules to detect and block SQL Injection patterns targeting the 'question_id' parameter. Implement strict input validation and sanitization at the application level, if possible, to neutralize special SQL characters. Monitor database logs for unusual query patterns indicative of injection attempts. Enforce the principle of least privilege by limiting database user permissions associated with the LMS plugin to reduce potential damage. Regularly back up LMS databases to enable recovery in case of data corruption or deletion. Additionally, consider isolating the LMS environment within a segmented network zone to limit lateral movement if compromised. Educate instructors and administrators about the risks of privilege misuse and encourage strong authentication practices.