CVE-2022-32563: Privilege Escalation in Couchbase Sync Gateway
Summary
CVE-2022-32563: An issue was discovered in Couchbase Sync Gateway 3.x before 3.0.2. Affects couchbase versions >= 3.0.0, < 3.0.2. Fixed in 3.0.2. How to fix ↓
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Background
Couchbase Sync Gateway is a component of the Couchbase Data Platform that enables synchronization of data between Couchbase Server and mobile devices. It provides a secure and scalable solution for real-time data synchronization. The vulnerability identified in Couchbase Sync Gateway version 3.x before 3.0.2 allows unauthenticated users to escalate their privileges through X.509 client-certificate authentication. This authentication method fails to verify admin credentials, leading to unauthorized privilege escalation.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability arises from the lack of verification of admin credentials when using X.509 client-certificate authentication from Sync Gateway to Couchbase Server. This means that even if admin credentials are provided to the Admin REST API, they are ignored, allowing unauthenticated users to gain elevated privileges. This privilege escalation can have severe consequences, as unauthorized users can perform administrative actions and access sensitive data. It is important to note that the Public REST API is not affected by this vulnerability.
How To Fix
Latest published version: 4.6.3 as of 23 Oct 2026
pip install --upgrade "couchbase==4.6.3"Upgrading to it may include breaking changes; the version below is the minimum fixed release for this vulnerability.
If you need the minimum change
3.0.2
This is the first release that contains the fix.
pip install --upgrade "couchbase==3.0.2"Tip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
As a temporary workaround, it is possible to replace X.509 certificate-based authentication with Username and Password authentication inside the bootstrap configuration. This can be done by modifying the configuration file to use Username and Password authentication instead of X.509 certificates. However, this workaround should only be considered as a temporary solution until the upgrade to version 3.0.2 or later can be performed.
Conclusion
The vulnerability in Couchbase Sync Gateway version 3.x before 3.0.2 allows unauthenticated users to escalate their privileges through X.509 client-certificate authentication. To mitigate this risk, it is crucial to upgrade to version 3.0.2 or later. Additionally, a temporary workaround is available by replacing X.509 certificate-based authentication with Username and Password authentication. For further support on vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.
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FAQ
Couchbase Sync Gateway is a component of the Couchbase Data Platform that enables synchronization of data between Couchbase Server and mobile devices. It provides a secure and scalable solution for real-time data synchronization.
The vulnerability allows unauthenticated users to escalate their privileges, gaining unauthorized access to administrative actions and sensitive data.
No, the Public REST API is not impacted by this vulnerability.
To fix this vulnerability, it is recommended to upgrade to Couchbase Sync Gateway version 3.0.2 or later.
Yes, a temporary workaround is to replace X.509 certificate-based authentication with Username and Password authentication inside the bootstrap configuration.
References
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