CVE-2025-62396 is a vulnerability identified in the Moodle learning management system, specifically affecting versions 4.5.0 and 5.0.0. The flaw resides in the router script (r.php) where improper error handling combined with misconfigured HTTP headers can cause the application to display internal directory listings. This exposure happens because the application fails to correctly handle certain HTTP requests, leading to the unintended disclosure of directory contents that should remain hidden. The vulnerability does not require any authentication or user interaction, making it remotely exploitable by unauthenticated attackers over the network. The CVSS 3.1 base score is 5.3, reflecting a medium severity with a low complexity attack vector (network), no privileges required, and no user interaction needed. The impact is limited to confidentiality as only information disclosure occurs; integrity and availability are unaffected. Although no public exploits have been reported, the information leakage could facilitate further attacks by revealing sensitive file names, directory structures, or configuration files. Moodle is widely used in educational institutions and public sector organizations, making this vulnerability relevant for entities relying on these versions. The lack of patch links suggests that fixes may still be pending or in development, emphasizing the need for interim mitigations such as web server configuration hardening and HTTP header management.

For European organizations, particularly educational institutions and public sector entities that heavily rely on Moodle, this vulnerability poses a risk of information leakage. Exposure of directory listings can reveal sensitive internal file structures, configuration files, or other data that could assist attackers in crafting targeted attacks or discovering further vulnerabilities. While the vulnerability does not directly compromise data integrity or availability, the confidentiality breach can undermine trust and potentially expose personal or institutional information. In regulated environments such as those governed by GDPR, unauthorized disclosure of internal system information could lead to compliance issues or reputational damage. The impact is heightened in countries with high Moodle adoption in schools, universities, and government agencies, where attackers might leverage this information for espionage or cybercrime. Although no active exploitation is known, the ease of exploitation and lack of authentication requirements mean that attackers could scan for vulnerable instances and gather intelligence with minimal effort.

European organizations should implement several specific measures to mitigate this vulnerability: 1) Immediately review and correct HTTP header configurations related to the Moodle router (r.php) to ensure that error handling does not expose directory listings. 2) Configure web servers (e.g., Apache, Nginx) to explicitly disable directory listing options for Moodle directories, preventing accidental exposure even if application errors occur. 3) Monitor web server logs for unusual requests targeting r.php or attempts to access directory listings. 4) Apply strict access controls and file permissions on Moodle installation directories to limit exposure of sensitive files. 5) Stay informed about official Moodle patches or updates addressing CVE-2025-62396 and plan timely upgrades to fixed versions once released. 6) Conduct internal security assessments or penetration tests focusing on directory listing exposures and HTTP header configurations. 7) Educate system administrators about the importance of secure error handling and HTTP header management in web applications. These targeted actions go beyond generic advice by focusing on the specific technical root cause and environment configurations related to this vulnerability.