CVE-2021-39180

What it is

OpenOLAT is a web-based learning management system (LMS). A path traversal vulnerability exists in versions prior to 15.3.18, 15.5.3, and 16.0.0. Using a specially prepared ZIP file, it is possible to overwrite any file that is writable by the application server user (e.g. the tomcat user). Depending on the configuration this can be limited to files of the OpenOlat user data directory, however, if not properly set up, the attack could also be used to overwrite application server config files, java code or even operating system files. The attack could be used to corrupt or modify any OpenOlat file such as course structures, config files or temporary test data. Those attack would require in-depth knowledge of the installation and thus more theoretical. If the app server configuration allows the execution of jsp files and the path to the context is known, it is also possible to execute java code. If the app server runs with the same user that is used to deploy the OpenOlat code or has write permissions on the OpenOlat code files and the path to the context is know, code injection is possible. The attack requires an OpenOlat user account to upload a ZIP file and trigger the unzip method. It can not be exploited by unregistered users. The problem is fixed in versions 15.3.18, 15.5.3 and 16.0.0. There are no known workarounds aside from upgrading.

At a glance

Exploitability

Can be exploited over the network with a low-privilege account. High risk of data tampering, service disruption.

Exploit odds

2.4% chance of exploitation in the next 30 days (EPSS).

Fix

A patch, advisory or fixed version is referenced. Upgrade or apply it.

Timeline

1. 2021-08-31 18:15 UTC PublishedDisclosed publicly on CVE.org and NVD
2. 2026-06-17 04:03 UTC Last updatedMost recent change to the record

Why it ranks here

• Exploited in the wild: no, CISA does not list it.
• Exploit odds: 2.4% in the next 30 days (EPSS).
• Severity: 8.1 HIGH (CVSS).
• Fix: a patch or advisory is linked.

Details

Published

2021-08-31 18:15 UTC

Last modified

2026-06-17 04:03 UTC

Exploit probability

2.4% · EPSS, next 30 days

Weakness

CWE-22 · Path traversal

Record status

Modified

Affected

• Frentix Openolat < 15.3.18
• Frentix Openolat < 15.5.3

Attack profile CVSS 3.1 · 8.1

Attack vector

Network

Complexity

Low

Privileges needed

Low

User interaction

None

Scope

Unchanged

Confidentiality

None

Integrity

High

Availability

High

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