CVE-2012-6619 in MongoDB
Summary
by MITRE
The default configuration for MongoDB before 2.3.2 does not validate objects, which allows remote authenticated users to cause a denial of service (crash) or read system memory via a crafted BSON object in the column name in an insert command, which triggers a buffer over-read.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/07/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2012-6619 represents a critical security flaw in MongoDB database systems prior to version 2.3.2, where the default configuration lacks proper validation mechanisms for incoming data objects. This weakness specifically affects the handling of BSON (Binary JSON) objects during insert operations, creating a scenario where maliciously crafted data can exploit the system's buffer management. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation that allows authenticated users to manipulate column names in insert commands, leading to unpredictable system behavior. The flaw operates at the core of MongoDB's data processing pipeline where BSON objects are parsed and stored, making it particularly dangerous as it can be triggered through legitimate database operations.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an authenticated user submits a crafted BSON object with manipulated column names in an insert command. This specific manipulation causes a buffer over-read condition where the database attempts to access memory locations beyond the allocated buffer boundaries. The buffer over-read vulnerability is classified under CWE-121 as a buffer overflow condition that occurs when data is read past the end of a buffer, potentially exposing sensitive system memory contents. The flaw manifests as a system crash or denial of service condition, effectively rendering the database unavailable to legitimate users while simultaneously potentially exposing confidential information stored in adjacent memory locations. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it requires only authenticated access, meaning that users with valid credentials can trigger the condition without requiring additional privileges or complex attack vectors.
The operational impact of CVE-2012-6619 extends beyond simple service disruption to include potential information disclosure and system instability. When exploited, the vulnerability can cause MongoDB processes to crash and restart, leading to data unavailability and potential data loss during the recovery process. The buffer over-read condition may also expose sensitive system memory contents, including database connection details, user credentials, or application data that happens to reside in adjacent memory segments. This information disclosure aspect significantly amplifies the threat level, as attackers can potentially gather intelligence about the database environment and underlying system configuration. The vulnerability affects organizations that rely on MongoDB for critical data storage and processing, particularly those with default configurations that do not implement additional security hardening measures.
Organizations should immediately implement mitigations including upgrading to MongoDB version 2.3.2 or later, where proper BSON object validation has been implemented. The recommended approach involves conducting thorough testing of the upgrade process to ensure compatibility with existing applications and data structures. Additional protective measures include implementing network segmentation to limit access to database systems, enforcing strict authentication controls, and monitoring database access patterns for anomalous behavior that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1070.004 for indicator removal and T1499.004 for network disruption, as attackers could use this vulnerability to create persistent denial of service conditions. Security teams should also consider implementing database activity monitoring solutions that can detect and alert on malformed BSON objects or unusual insert operations that might indicate exploitation attempts. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should include checks for this specific vulnerability to ensure that all MongoDB instances are properly patched and configured according to security best practices.