CVE-2023-1409 - MongoDB Server TLS Configuration Issue on Windows and macOS Allows Unauthorized Client Connection

In today's digital world, securing client-server connections is vital to maintaining the confidentiality and integrity of sensitive data. One commonly-used method for ensuring secure connections is the use of TLS (Transport Layer Security) certificates. However, a recently-discovered vulnerability in certain versions of MongoDB Server on Windows and macOS systems may put that security at risk. In this article, we will explore the details of the vulnerability, CVE-2023-1409, and explain how it can be exploited. We will also provide a code snippet and links to original references to help you understand and mitigate the problem.

Description of the vulnerability (CVE-2023-1409)

When MongoDB Server is running on Windows or macOS and configured to use TLS with a specific set of known secure configuration options (e.g., as commonly used on Linux platforms), it is possible that client certificate validation may not be in effect. As a result, an unauthorized client that supplies any certificate could potentially establish a TLS connection with the server, opening up opportunities for data breaches or other cyber attacks. This issue affects all MongoDB Server v6.3 versions, MongoDB Server v5. versions v5.. to v5..14, and all MongoDB Server v4.4 versions.

Code snippet

To understand the security issue, let's look at some sample configuration options for MongoDB Server that could be affected by the vulnerability:

net:
  port: 27017
  bindIp: ...
  ssl:
    mode: requireSSL
    PEMKeyFile: /path/to/server.pem
    CAFile: /path/to/ca.crt
    allowConnectionsWithoutCertificates: false
    allowInvalidCertificates: false
    allowInvalidHostnames: false

In this example, the allowConnectionsWithoutCertificates, allowInvalidCertificates, and allowInvalidHostnames options are all set to false, indicating that secure TLS connections should be enforced. However, due to the CVE-2023-1409 vulnerability, these options may not be fully effective on Windows and macOS installations of the affected MongoDB Server versions, potentially allowing unauthorized clients to establish connections.

Exploit details

An attacker can exploit this vulnerability by presenting any TLS certificate during the connection handshake process in order to establish a connection. Ordinarily, the connection would be rejected if the certificate provided by the client was not valid and trusted by the server (as per the configuration options mentioned above). However, CVE-2023-1409 allows these invalid certificates to bypass the validation process, leading to unauthorized access to the MongoDB Server.

Mitigation and solutions

To address this vulnerability, MongoDB has provided patches for the affected server versions. Administrators of MongoDB Server installations should upgrade their software to MongoDB Server v6.3.1, v5..15 or v4.4.15, where this issue has been resolved. Additionally, it is crucial to always apply security best practices, such as regularly auditing server configurations, monitoring server logs, and keeping software up to date with the latest patches.

Original references

For more information about CVE-2023-1409 and the fixes provided by MongoDB, refer to the following links:

1. MongoDB Security Advisory: https://www.mongodb.com/security-advisory/cve-2023-1409
2. MongoDB Server Documentation: https://docs.mongodb.com/manual/

Conclusion

In conclusion, CVE-2023-1409 is a critical vulnerability that can weaken the security of MongoDB Server instances running on Windows and macOS platforms. By staying informed about this issue, applying the available security patches, and adhering to best practices, administrators can keep their MongoDB Server installations secure and maintain the trust of their clients and users.

Timeline

Published on: 08/23/2023 16:15:00 UTC
Last modified on: 08/29/2023 16:55:00 UTC