MongoDB Python Driver improper neutralization in GridFS

Severity: high · CVSS 8.3 · Published 2026-09-10

MongoDB's Python driver includes GridFS, a component that stores large files in a database. A flaw allows authenticated users to supply specially crafted file identifiers that are interpreted as database queries rather than literal values, potentially exposing other files or deleting all files in a storage bucket. This could result in data breach or loss of stored files.

Technologies: MongoDB Python Driver, pymongo (PyPI). Vendors: MongoDB, PyPI.

Quick answers

Is This vulnerability exploited in the wild?
No. Junglewise Threat Intelligence has no report of This vulnerability being exploited in the wild.
How severe is This vulnerability?
High severity, with a CVSS score of 8.3, published 10 September 2026.
Which products and versions are affected?
MongoDB Python Driver <= 4.18.0; pymongo (PyPI) <= 4.18.0.
Is there a fix for This vulnerability?
No fixed version is recorded yet. Check the vendor's advisory in the references below. If you run it, Junglewise drafts a mitigation that fits your setup and applies it once you approve, with senior security engineers behind it.
How is This vulnerability attacked?
It is attacked over the network.
Am I affected?
Check whether you run MongoDB Python Driver or pymongo (PyPI) at an affected version. Junglewise does that check for you around the clock: connect your code, cloud and domains, and it matches new vulnerabilities like this one against what you actually run and tells you when one reaches you.

Technical details

Improper neutralization of special elements in the GridFS delete, read, and rename operations allows an authenticated attacker to inject query conditions via file identifiers. The vulnerability affects the MongoDB Python Driver version 4.18.0 and earlier. An authenticated user who controls the file identifier parameter can read unintended files, delete all chunks in a bucket, or rename wrong files with low user interaction required.

Affected products

  • MongoDB Python Driver <= 4.18.0

Timeline

  • 2026-09-10: disclosed
  • 2026-10-05: advisory: Advisory withdrawn as duplicate of GHSA-8fvv-fgr5-f8ch

This page as Markdown. Free to reuse under CC BY 4.0 with a link back.