CVE-2022-24760 : What You Need to Know

Parse Server, an open-source HTTP web server backend, is vulnerable to Remote Code Execution (RCE) in versions prior to 4.10.7. The vulnerability stems from Prototype Pollution in

DatabaseController.js

, impacting default configurations with MongoDB and potentially other database backends like Postgres. Both Linux (Ubuntu) and Windows systems are known to be affected. Immediate upgrade or manual patching is recommended to mitigate this critical vulnerability affecting Parse Server.

Understanding CVE-2022-24760

This section delves into what CVE-2022-24760 entails, its impacts, technical details, and mitigation strategies.

What is CVE-2022-24760?

Parse Server versions below 4.10.7 are susceptible to a Remote Code Execution (RCE) vulnerability due to a weakness in Prototype Pollution within the

DatabaseController.js

file. The vulnerability could be exploited in the default configuration with MongoDB and potentially other database backends like Postgres. Both Linux (Ubuntu) and Windows systems have confirmed vulnerabilities.

The Impact of CVE-2022-24760

With a CVSS base score of 10, this critical vulnerability poses a high impact on availability, confidentiality, and integrity. Attack complexity is low, and the attack vector is through the network, with no user interaction or privileges required. The scope is changed, making immediate action necessary to secure Parse Server installations.

Technical Details of CVE-2022-24760

This section provides in-depth technical insights into the vulnerability, including its description, affected systems and versions, as well as the exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from Prototype Pollution in

DatabaseController.js

, enabling threat actors to execute arbitrary code remotely. This flaw affects versions prior to 4.10.7 of Parse Server.

Affected Systems and Versions

Parse Server versions less than 4.10.7 are impacted by this vulnerability, specifically in default configurations with MongoDB. The issue may extend to other database backends like Postgres.

Exploitation Mechanism

Threat actors can exploit this vulnerability by leveraging the Prototype Pollution flaw in

DatabaseController.js

to achieve Remote Code Execution on Parse Server instances.

Mitigation and Prevention

This section outlines immediate steps to take, long-term security practices, and recommendations for patching and updates.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users are strongly advised to upgrade Parse Server installations to version 4.10.7 or above immediately. A manual patch can be applied using the code provided by the source GHSA-p6h4-93qp-jhcm.

Long-Term Security Practices

In the long term, organizations should implement robust security practices, including regular security audits, continuous monitoring, and timely software updates to prevent similar vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Regularly patching and updating Parse Server to the latest secure versions is crucial to safeguard against emerging threats and vulnerabilities, ensuring the overall security of web server backends.