CVE-2020-24391: Remote Code Execution in mongo-express
Summary
CVE-2020-24391: Remote code execution in mongo-express. Affects mongodb-query-parser versions < 2.0.0. Fixed in 2.0.0. How to fix ↓
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Background
mongo-express is a web-based MongoDB admin interface written in Node.js. It provides a user-friendly interface for managing MongoDB databases, collections, and documents. The vulnerability identified as CVE-2020-24391 affects mongo-express versions before 1.0.0. This vulnerability allows remote code execution due to unsafe implementation of support for certain advanced syntax. It is worth noting that this vulnerability may overlap with CVE-2019-10769.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability in mongo-express allows an attacker to execute arbitrary code remotely. This can lead to unauthorized access, data manipulation, and potential compromise of the underlying system. The unsafe implementation of advanced syntax support enables an attacker to inject malicious code and execute it within the context of the application.
How To Fix
Latest published version: 5.1.3 as of 23 Oct 2026
npm install mongodb-query-parser@5.1.3
Upgrading to it may include breaking changes; the version below is the minimum fixed release for this vulnerability.
If you need the minimum change
2.0.0
This is the first release that contains the fix.
npm install mongodb-query-parser@2.0.0
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Workaround
As a workaround, if updating to the latest version is not immediately feasible, it is recommended to disable or restrict access to mongo-express until the package can be updated. This can be achieved by blocking network access to the application or implementing access controls at the network level.
Conclusion
The vulnerability in mongo-express before version 1.0.0 allows remote code execution, which can have severe consequences for the affected system. It is crucial to update the package to the latest version or apply the recommended workaround to mitigate the risk. For further assistance and support in vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.
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FAQ
mongo-express is a web-based MongoDB admin interface written in Node.js. It provides a user-friendly interface for managing MongoDB databases, collections, and documents.
The vulnerability allows remote code execution, which can lead to unauthorized access, data manipulation, and potential compromise of the underlying system.
To fix this vulnerability, update mongo-express to version 1.0.0 or later. This version includes the necessary security patches to address the remote code execution vulnerability.
As a workaround, you can disable or restrict access to mongo-express until the package can be updated. This can be achieved by blocking network access to the application or implementing access controls at the network level.
At the time of this report, there are no known public exploits specifically targeting this vulnerability. However, it is important to apply the recommended security updates as soon as possible to mitigate the risk.
References
Related vulnerabilities
Recent vulnerabilities recorded for mongodb-query-parser.