CVE-2013-4650 in MongoDB
Summary
by MITRE
MongoDB 2.4.x before 2.4.5 and 2.5.x before 2.5.1 allows remote authenticated users to obtain internal system privileges by leveraging a username of __system in an arbitrary database.
Be aware that VulDB is the high quality source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/03/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2013-4650 represents a critical privilege escalation flaw in MongoDB database systems affecting versions 2.4.x prior to 2.4.5 and 2.5.x prior to 2.5.1. This issue stems from improper handling of system-level authentication credentials within the database's access control mechanisms, creating a pathway for authenticated attackers to escalate their privileges to internal system-level access. The flaw specifically exploits the use of the reserved username __system which should normally be restricted to internal database operations but can be leveraged by malicious users to gain unauthorized access to system-level privileges.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs through the database's authentication subsystem where MongoDB fails to properly validate or restrict access when the __system username is specified in arbitrary database contexts. This allows an authenticated user who can access any database to attempt authentication using the __system account, potentially bypassing normal access controls and gaining elevated privileges. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates at the authentication layer, meaning that even users with limited database access can exploit this flaw to achieve system-level privileges. The flaw aligns with CWE-284 which addresses improper access control, specifically targeting the weakness where insufficient restrictions are placed on system-level accounts and operations.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability creates significant risk for organizations relying on MongoDB deployments, as it enables authenticated attackers to escalate their privileges without requiring additional credentials or complex exploitation techniques. The impact extends beyond simple privilege escalation to potentially allow full system compromise, as system-level access typically provides extensive control over database operations, configuration changes, and underlying system resources. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to modify database configurations, access sensitive data, or even execute arbitrary code on the database server, depending on the system implementation and available privileges. The vulnerability's remote nature means that it can be exploited from external networks, making it particularly dangerous for publicly accessible database instances.
Organizations should immediately implement mitigation strategies including upgrading to MongoDB versions 2.4.5 or 2.5.1 and later, where this vulnerability has been addressed through proper validation of system-level usernames. Security administrators should also review existing user permissions and ensure that no users have unnecessary access to multiple databases, as this could facilitate exploitation. The mitigation approach aligns with ATT&CK technique T1078 which addresses valid accounts and privilege escalation, requiring organizations to implement least privilege principles and monitor for suspicious authentication patterns. Additionally, network segmentation and firewall rules should be implemented to limit direct access to database servers, reducing the attack surface for remote exploitation. Regular security assessments and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar privilege escalation vulnerabilities in database systems and other enterprise applications.