The vulnerability identified as CVE-2026-22241 affects the Open eClass platform, a comprehensive course management system widely used in academic environments. The flaw exists in versions prior to 4.2 within the theme import functionality, which allows users with administrative privileges to upload zip archives containing theme files. The core issue is the absence of validation or sanitization of the contents of these zip files, specifically allowing files with dangerous types to be uploaded unchecked. This unrestricted file upload vulnerability (CWE-434) enables an attacker to place arbitrary files anywhere on the server's file system. Because these files can include executable scripts or code, the attacker can achieve remote code execution (RCE) on the web server hosting Open eClass. The vulnerability does not require user interaction and can be exploited remotely over the network, but it does require the attacker to have administrative privileges within the platform. The CVSS 4.0 base score of 7.3 reflects the high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, combined with low attack complexity and no need for user interaction. The vulnerability was publicly disclosed on January 8, 2026, and fixed in Open eClass version 4.2. No known exploits have been reported in the wild to date. The lack of input validation in file uploads is a common security oversight, but in this case, the elevated privileges required limit the attack surface to insiders or compromised admin accounts. However, successful exploitation could lead to full system compromise, data theft, or service disruption.

For European organizations, particularly educational institutions and universities that deploy Open eClass as their learning management system, this vulnerability poses a significant risk. An attacker with administrative credentials could execute arbitrary code on the server, potentially leading to data breaches involving sensitive student and faculty information, unauthorized access to internal networks, and disruption of educational services. The impact extends to the integrity of course content and availability of the platform, which could affect academic operations. Since Open eClass is used in multiple European countries, exploitation could have widespread consequences. The requirement for administrative privileges reduces the likelihood of external attackers exploiting this vulnerability directly but raises concerns about insider threats or compromised admin accounts. Additionally, remote code execution on the web server could serve as a foothold for lateral movement within the organization's network, increasing the overall risk profile.

The primary and most effective mitigation is to upgrade all Open eClass installations to version 4.2 or later, where this vulnerability is patched. Organizations should enforce strict access controls and limit administrative privileges to trusted personnel only, employing the principle of least privilege. Implement multi-factor authentication (MFA) for all administrative accounts to reduce the risk of credential compromise. Monitor and audit file upload activities and server logs for unusual behavior or unauthorized file uploads. Employ web application firewalls (WAFs) with custom rules to detect and block suspicious file uploads or execution attempts. Regularly scan the environment for outdated software versions and vulnerabilities. Additionally, segregate the Open eClass server from critical internal networks to contain potential breaches. Conduct security awareness training for administrators to recognize phishing and social engineering attacks that could lead to credential theft.