CVE-2025-64502: Parse Server Exposes Sensitive Database Information via Public Explain Queries
Summary
CVE-2025-64502: Impact The MongoDB explain() method provides detailed information about query execution plans, including index usage, collection scanning behavior, and performance metrics. Affects parse-server versions < 8.5.0-alpha.5. Fixed in 8.5.0-alpha.5. How to fix ↓
Also tracked for
- parse · Bitnami
The same CVE-2025-64502 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 platform that enables developers to build applications with a robust server-side infrastructure. It provides features such as data storage, user authentication, and real-time notifications. However, a vulnerability has been identified that allows public access to the MongoDB explain queries, potentially exposing sensitive database information.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability arises from the MongoDB explain() method, which reveals detailed information about query execution plans, including index usage and performance metrics. Parse Server permits any client to execute these explain queries without requiring a master key. This can lead to the exposure of database schema details, index configurations, and potential attack vectors for exploiting database performance.
How To Fix
Latest published version: 9.10.5 as of 22 Oct 2026
npm install parse-server@9.10.5Upgrading to it may include breaking changes; the version below is the minimum fixed release for this vulnerability.
If you need the minimum change
8.5.0-alpha.5
This is the first release that contains the fix.
npm install parse-server@8.5.0-alpha.5Tip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
As a temporary measure, you can implement middleware to block explain queries from non-master-key requests. Below is a sample middleware code snippet:
app.use((req, res, next) => {
if (req.body && req.body.explain && !req.headers['x-master-key']) {
return res.status(403).send('Forbidden: Explain queries require master key.');
}
next();
});
Conclusion
In summary, the CVE-2025-64502 vulnerability in Parse Server allows public access to sensitive database information through explain queries. It is crucial to update to the latest version and implement recommended configurations to secure your application.
See every vulnerability recorded for parse-server →
FAQ
The vulnerability allows unauthorized users to access sensitive database information, which can lead to data exposure and potential exploitation.
You can use the Vulert playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected by this vulnerability without requiring any signup.
Update your parse-server package to the patched version and configure the 'databaseOptions.allowPublicExplain' setting to false.
Yes, Vulert can monitor and alert you in real-time for open-source vulnerabilities in your software using just the package-lock.json file.
Failing to address this vulnerability may expose your database to unauthorized access, leading to potential data breaches and performance exploitation.
References
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