CVE-2020-5251 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
CVE-2020-5251 is a high severity vulnerability in parse-server < 4.1.0, allowing unauthorized access to user data. Learn about the impact, affected systems, exploitation, and mitigation steps.
In parser-server before version 4.1.0, a vulnerability allows fetching all user objects using regex in NoSQL queries, potentially leading to information disclosure.
Understanding CVE-2020-5251
What is CVE-2020-5251?
CVE-2020-5251 is an information disclosure vulnerability in parse-server versions prior to 4.1.0, enabling unauthorized access to user data through NoSQL queries.
The Impact of CVE-2020-5251
The vulnerability poses a high severity risk with a CVSS base score of 7.7, allowing attackers to extract sensitive information from the database.
Technical Details of CVE-2020-5251
Vulnerability Description
- In parse-server < 4.1.0, regex in NoSQL queries permits fetching all user objects.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: parse-server
- Vendor: parse-community
- Versions Affected: < 4.1.0
Exploitation Mechanism
- Attack Complexity: High
- Attack Vector: Network
- Privileges Required: Low
- User Interaction: Required
- Scope: Changed
- Confidentiality Impact: High
- Integrity Impact: High
- Vector String: CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:H/PR:L/UI:R/S:C/C:H/I:H/A:N
Mitigation and Prevention
Immediate Steps to Take
- Upgrade parse-server to version 4.1.0 or newer.
- Avoid using regex in NoSQL queries for sensitive data.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly review and update access control policies.
- Conduct security audits to identify and address vulnerabilities.
Patching and Updates
- Stay informed about security advisories and apply patches promptly.