CVE-2026-30850: Parse Server: File metadata endpoint bypasses `beforeFind` / `afterFind` trigger authorization
Impact
The file metadata endpoint (GET /files/:appId/metadata/:filename) does not enforce beforeFind / afterFind file triggers. When these triggers are used as access-control gates, the metadata endpoint bypasses them entirely, allowing unauthorized access to file metadata.
This affects any deployment that relies on Parse.Cloud.beforeFind(Parse.File, ...) to restrict file access. Only file metadata (user-defined key-value pairs set via addMetadata) is exposed; file content remains protected.
Patches
The metadata handler now runs beforeFind and afterFind triggers and returns HTTP 403 when a trigger denies access.
Workarounds
Disable the metadata endpoint by overriding the route with a middleware that rejects all requests:
js // Add before mounting Parse Server app.get('/parse/files/:appId/metadata/:filename', (req, res) => { res.status(403).json({ error: 'Forbidden' }); });
Adjust the path prefix (/parse) to match your mountPath.
References
- GitHub security advisory: https://github.com/parse-community/parse-server/security/advisories/GHSA-hwx8-q9cg-mqmc - Fix Parse Server 9: https://github.com/parse-community/parse-server/releases/tag/9.5.0-alpha.9 - Fix Parse Server 8: https://github.com/parse-community/parse-server/releases/tag/8.6.9
Other sources
Parse Server is an open source backend that can be deployed to any infrastructure that can run Node.js. Prior to versions 8.6.9 and 9.5.0-alpha.9, the file metadata endpoint (GET /files/:appId/metadata/:filename) does not enforce beforeFind / afterFind file triggers. When these triggers are used as access-control gates, the metadata endpoint bypasses them entirely, allowing unauthorized access to file metadata. This issue has been patched in versions 8.6.9 and 9.5.0-alpha.9.
— MITRE
Affected Software
Event History
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the severity of CVE-2026-30850?
CVE-2026-30850 has a high severity as it allows unauthorized access to file metadata.
How do I fix CVE-2026-30850?
To fix CVE-2026-30850, upgrade your Parse Server to version 8.6.9 or later, or 9.5.0-alpha.9 or later.
What versions of Parse Server are affected by CVE-2026-30850?
Parse Server versions prior to 8.6.9 and 9.5.0-alpha.9 are affected by CVE-2026-30850.
What is the impact of CVE-2026-30850?
The impact of CVE-2026-30850 is that attackers may bypass authorization checks for file metadata endpoints.
Is CVE-2026-30850 a remote vulnerability?
Yes, CVE-2026-30850 is considered a remote vulnerability as it can be exploited over the network.