CVE-2020-4669 in Planning Analytics
Summary
by MITRE • 05/17/2021
IBM Planning Analytics Local 2.0 connects to a MongoDB server. MongoDB, a document-oriented database system, is listening on the remote port, and it is configured to allow connections without password authentication. A remote attacker can gain unauthorized access to the database. IBM X-Force ID: 184600.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/20/2021
IBM Planning Analytics Local 2.0 contains a critical security vulnerability that allows unauthorized remote access to an unsecured MongoDB database instance. This vulnerability stems from improper database configuration where the MongoDB server is configured to accept connections without requiring authentication credentials. The flaw represents a classic misconfiguration issue that directly violates fundamental security principles and creates an open door for malicious actors to access sensitive data.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the MongoDB database service listening on a remote port without authentication requirements. This configuration allows any remote attacker to establish connections and potentially perform unauthorized operations against the database. The absence of password authentication creates a direct pathway for data exfiltration, modification, or deletion of critical planning analytics information that organizations rely upon for business decision making. This type of vulnerability is classified under CWE-312, which specifically addresses the exposure of sensitive information through improper handling of authentication credentials.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data access. Attackers with access to the unsecured MongoDB instance could manipulate planning data, potentially affecting business continuity and decision-making processes. The compromised system may contain sensitive financial planning information, operational metrics, and strategic business data that could be exploited for competitive advantage or financial gain. This vulnerability particularly affects organizations using IBM Planning Analytics Local 2.0 who may not have proper network segmentation or firewall rules in place to protect the database from unauthorized access.
From an attack perspective, this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1071.004 which involves application layer protocol usage for command and control communications. The unsecured database connection provides attackers with an easy target for data extraction and manipulation. Organizations should consider implementing network segmentation to isolate database services from public networks, applying proper authentication mechanisms, and regularly auditing database configurations. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of principle of least privilege and proper access controls in database security, as outlined in industry standards for secure system design and implementation practices.