CVE-2018-20803 : Security Advisory and Response
Learn about CVE-2018-20803, a MongoDB Server vulnerability allowing denial of service attacks. Find out affected versions and mitigation steps to secure your systems.
A denial of service vulnerability in MongoDB Server versions prior to 4.0.5, 3.6.10, and 3.4.19 allows an authorized user to create an infinite loop in mathematical processing, leading to a DoS condition.
Understanding CVE-2018-20803
This CVE involves a vulnerability in MongoDB Server that can be exploited by a user with database query permissions to trigger a denial of service attack.
What is CVE-2018-20803?
This CVE refers to an issue in MongoDB Server where a user can intentionally send queries that create an infinite loop in mathematical processing, causing a denial of service.
The Impact of CVE-2018-20803
The vulnerability can be exploited by a user with database query permissions to trigger a denial of service attack by creating an infinite loop in mathematical processing while holding locks.
Technical Details of CVE-2018-20803
This section provides technical details about the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
A user with database query permissions can exploit the vulnerability by sending specially crafted queries that create an infinite loop in mathematical processing, leading to a denial of service condition.
Affected Systems and Versions
- MongoDB Server v4.0 versions earlier than 4.0.5
- MongoDB Server v3.6 versions earlier than 3.6.10
- MongoDB Server v3.4 versions earlier than 3.4.19
Exploitation Mechanism
- Attack Complexity: Low
- Attack Vector: Network
- Availability Impact: High
- Privileges Required: Low
- User Interaction: None
Mitigation and Prevention
Protect your systems from CVE-2018-20803 with these mitigation strategies.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update MongoDB Server to version 4.0.5, 3.6.10, or 3.4.19 to mitigate the vulnerability.
- Monitor database queries for unusual or potentially malicious behavior.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Implement least privilege access controls to limit the impact of potential attacks.
- Regularly review and update database security configurations.
Patching and Updates
- Apply security patches and updates provided by MongoDB Inc. to address the vulnerability.