CVE-2019-11496 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

Couchbase Server versions prior to 5.0 had a security issue allowing unauthenticated access to the "default" bucket. This vulnerability was addressed in versions 5.1.0 and 5.5.0.

Understanding CVE-2019-11496

Before version 5.0 of Couchbase Server, there was a special bucket named "default" that granted read and write permission without requiring authentication. However, starting from version 5.0, the behavior of all buckets, including "default," was modified to only grant access to authenticated users with appropriate authorization. Nevertheless, users were still able to gain unauthenticated and unauthorized access to the "default" bucket by altering its properties. This issue has been resolved in versions 5.1.0 and 5.5.0.

What is CVE-2019-11496?

CVE-2019-11496 is a vulnerability in Couchbase Server versions prior to 5.0 that allowed unauthenticated access to the "default" bucket, potentially compromising data security.

The Impact of CVE-2019-11496

The vulnerability could lead to unauthorized access to sensitive data stored in the "default" bucket, posing a significant security risk to organizations using affected versions of Couchbase Server.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-11496

In-depth technical information about the vulnerability and its implications.

Vulnerability Description

Prior to version 5.0, the "default" bucket in Couchbase Server allowed unauthenticated read and write access, which was changed in version 5.0. However, users could still access the bucket without authentication by modifying its properties.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected Systems: Couchbase Server versions prior to 5.0
Fixed Versions: 5.1.0 and 5.5.0

Exploitation Mechanism

Unauthorized users could exploit the vulnerability by altering the properties of the "default" bucket, gaining unauthenticated access to sensitive data.

Mitigation and Prevention

Measures to address and prevent the CVE-2019-11496 vulnerability.

Immediate Steps to Take

Upgrade Couchbase Server to version 5.1.0 or 5.5.0 to mitigate the vulnerability.
Monitor access to the "default" bucket for any unauthorized activities.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement strong authentication mechanisms to prevent unauthorized access.
Regularly review and update access control policies to enhance security.

Patching and Updates

Apply patches and updates provided by Couchbase to ensure ongoing protection against security vulnerabilities.