CVE-2020-7923 : Security Advisory and Response
Learn about CVE-2020-7923, a vulnerability in MongoDB Server allowing DoS attacks via specially crafted queries. Find mitigation steps and version details here.
A user authorized to perform database queries may cause denial of service by issuing specially crafted queries in MongoDB Server versions prior to 4.4.0-rc7, 4.2.8, and 4.0.19.
Understanding CVE-2020-7923
This CVE involves a specific GeoQuery that can lead to a Denial of Service (DoS) attack against MongoDB Server.
What is CVE-2020-7923?
This vulnerability allows an authorized user to trigger a DoS attack by executing specially crafted queries that violate an invariant in the query subsystem's support for geoNear in MongoDB Server.
The Impact of CVE-2020-7923
- CVSS Base Score: 6.5 (Medium Severity)
- Attack Vector: Network
- Attack Complexity: Low
- Availability Impact: High
- Privileges Required: Low
- Scope: Unchanged
- No impact on Confidentiality and Integrity
Technical Details of CVE-2020-7923
This section provides detailed technical information about the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability arises from improper handling of exceptional conditions in MongoDB Server, allowing a user to exploit the GeoQuery functionality to cause a DoS condition.
Affected Systems and Versions
The following versions of MongoDB Server are affected:
- MongoDB Server 4.4 versions prior to 4.4.0-rc7
- MongoDB Server 4.2 versions prior to 4.2.8
- MongoDB Server 4.0 versions prior to 4.0.19
Exploitation Mechanism
An attacker with authorized access can exploit this vulnerability by executing specially crafted queries that violate the query subsystem's support for geoNear, leading to a DoS condition.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protect your systems from CVE-2020-7923 with the following steps:
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update MongoDB Server to the latest patched version.
- Monitor and restrict user queries to prevent malicious exploitation.
- Implement network security measures to detect and block suspicious activities.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly review and update access controls and user privileges.
- Conduct security training for database administrators to recognize and respond to potential threats.
Patching and Updates
- Apply security patches provided by MongoDB Inc. promptly to address this vulnerability.