CVE-2020-26288: Open Source Vulnerability in Parse Server

parse Updated 02 Oct 2025

Summary

06/03/2024
Yes i
Medium
Not published

CVE-2020-26288: Parse Server stores password in plain text. Affects parse versions < 4.5.0. Fixed in 4.5.0. How to fix ↓

Also tracked for

The same CVE-2020-26288 is tracked separately for each ecosystem and vendor. Its fix information is the same; the package and affected versions differ.

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Background

Parse Server is an open source backend that can be deployed to any infrastructure running Node.js. It provides a scalable and customizable solution for building mobile and web applications. The vulnerability identified in Parse Server involves the storage of user passwords in cleartext when using LDAP authentication. This vulnerability can potentially lead to unauthorized access to user accounts and compromise sensitive information.

Vulnerability Detail

In Parse Server versions prior to 4.5.0, user passwords involved in LDAP authentication are stored in cleartext. This means that an attacker with access to the password storage could easily retrieve and misuse the passwords. The vulnerability is fixed in version 4.5.0 by stripping the password after authentication, preventing cleartext password storage. It is crucial for users of Parse Server to update to version 4.5.0 or later to mitigate this vulnerability.

How To Fix

Minimum fixed version

4.5.0

This is the first release that contains the fix.

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Conclusion

In conclusion, Parse Server versions prior to 4.5.0 are vulnerable to cleartext password storage when using LDAP authentication. It is crucial for users to upgrade to version 4.5.0 or later to mitigate this vulnerability and ensure the security of user passwords. For further support on vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.

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FAQ

To check the version of Parse Server, you can run the following command in your terminal:

$ parse-server --version

The only effective workaround for this vulnerability is to upgrade to Parse Server version 4.5.0 or later. It is not recommended to implement custom workarounds as they may introduce additional security risks.

There are no known instances of this vulnerability being exploited in the wild. However, it is important to address this vulnerability promptly to prevent any potential unauthorized access to user accounts.

If exploited, this vulnerability could allow an attacker to gain access to user passwords stored in cleartext. This can lead to unauthorized access to user accounts and potential misuse of sensitive information.

More information about the fix for this vulnerability can be found in the release notes of Parse Server version 4.5.0. The release notes provide details about the changes made to address this vulnerability.

Related vulnerabilities

Recent vulnerabilities recorded for parse.

How To Fix

Minimum fixed version

4.5.0

This is the first release that contains the fix.

Tip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →

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