Authorization Bypass in OpenEMR via load_form.php

Executive Summary

OpenEMR before version 8.3.0 has an authorization bypass flaw in load_form.php. Authenticated clinicians without high-sensitivity permissions can read and modify encounter-bound forms. Attackers exploit this by requesting restricted content via Clinical Notes or Care Plan loaders to obtain a CSRF token, then submitting save.php to alter clinical records.

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Detection Guidance

To detect this vulnerability, check OpenEMR versions before 8.3.0 for unauthorized access to Clinical Notes or Care Plan forms via load_form.php. Monitor for suspicious requests to save.php that modify encounter-bound forms without proper authorization. Review logs for direct form loader access attempts.

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Impact Analysis

This vulnerability allows unauthorized modification of clinical records, potentially leading to incorrect diagnoses, treatment errors, or data tampering. It can also enable attackers to access sensitive patient information without proper authorization.

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Compliance Impact

This vulnerability likely violates HIPAA due to unauthorized access and modification of protected health information. It may also breach GDPR by compromising patient data integrity and confidentiality, leading to legal and financial penalties.

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Mitigation Strategies

Upgrade OpenEMR to version 8.3.0 or later to address the authorization bypass vulnerability in load_form.php.

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