2014-07-24 Instructure Advisory IAC01792 - Boundary issues with rubyzip gem

824

SECURITY UPDATE

Release Date:	2014-07-24 (Last update can be found below the document title)
Description:	Boundary issues with rubyzip gem
Criticality Level:	Moderately Critical ( Less Critical < Critical < Moderately Critical < Highly Critical )
Impact:	Possible unauthorized access to filesystem and files Possible escalation of privileges Possible execution of arbitrary code
Systems Affected:	Canvas LMS
Solution Status:	Patched
Discovered By:	Internal audit
Relevant Changesets:	https://github.com/instructure/canvas-lms/commit/a6e104a20b0e6da4251cf7ed90b4eecea0937130

Summary:

A vulnerability was discovered within the rubyzip gem used by Canvas which could allow an attacker to gain access to the filesystem, directories, files and/or execute arbitrary code via symbolic links.

Status:

Fixed in Canvas Cloud as of 7/24/2014. Users of Canvas CV are encouraged to either update to the most recent stable code or apply the patch manually.

About

Bio

Jordan has had various roles in the ed tech software (SAAS) industry for the past 9 years. (almost 5 years with Instructure). In his previous company he was a Client Services Manager for two years (responsible for account management, implementation, project management, and training, for each of his customers). After a year and a half he was commissioned to build a training department, all policies and procedures, and deliver training for all customers. Over the past eight years he has been in charge of conceiving, producing and deploying eLearning initiatives and strategies. He has trained over 3,000 adult learners with a wide range of technical aptitude, including K-12 Teachers, Principals, Administrators, Superintendents, Higher Ed Professors, Doctors, CTO’s, and Corporate Business Professionals and Executives. Jordan is an instructional designer and Community Manager for Instructure with a focus on connecting Canvas users with tools and resources that will help them get excited about and become proficient in utilizing the Canvas Learning Platform.