CVE-2021-45232 in APISIX Dashboard
Summary
by MITRE • 12/27/2021
In Apache APISIX Dashboard before 2.10.1, the Manager API uses two frameworks and introduces framework `droplet` on the basis of framework `gin`, all APIs and authentication middleware are developed based on framework `droplet`, but some API directly use the interface of framework `gin` thus bypassing the authentication.
If you want to get best quality of vulnerability data, you may have to visit VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/31/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2021-45232 represents a critical authentication bypass flaw in Apache APISIX Dashboard versions prior to 2.10.1. This issue stems from the complex architecture of the dashboard which employs two distinct web frameworks simultaneously, creating an inconsistent security posture. The system utilizes the gin framework as its foundation while introducing a custom droplet framework that builds upon gin's capabilities. The authentication middleware and API implementations are primarily constructed using the droplet framework, which properly enforces security controls. However, certain API endpoints directly leverage gin's native interfaces without passing through the droplet framework's authentication layer, creating a significant security gap that malicious actors can exploit.
The technical flaw manifests in the inconsistent implementation pattern where some API endpoints bypass the established authentication mechanisms by directly invoking gin's native routing and handler interfaces. This architectural inconsistency allows unauthorized access to protected resources because the authentication checks implemented within the droplet framework are circumvented when endpoints directly use gin's lower-level functionality. The vulnerability creates a vector where attackers can access administrative functions and sensitive data without proper authentication, potentially leading to complete system compromise. This type of flaw falls under CWE-284 Access Control Issues, specifically representing an improper access control scenario where the system fails to properly enforce authentication boundaries.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted, affecting organizations that rely on Apache APISIX Dashboard for API management and configuration. An attacker exploiting this vulnerability can gain unauthorized access to the dashboard's administrative interface, potentially enabling them to modify API configurations, add malicious routes, manipulate authentication settings, and access sensitive system information. The bypassed authentication allows for privilege escalation and persistent access to the system, making it particularly dangerous for production environments where the dashboard controls critical API gateway configurations. This vulnerability directly aligns with ATT&CK technique T1078 Valid Accounts, as it enables unauthorized access through legitimate administrative interfaces without requiring additional credential compromise.
Organizations should immediately upgrade to Apache APISIX Dashboard version 2.10.1 or later to remediate this vulnerability, as this release includes the necessary fixes to ensure all API endpoints properly utilize the droplet framework's authentication mechanisms. System administrators should also conduct comprehensive security assessments of their dashboard configurations, reviewing all API endpoints to ensure consistent use of the authentication framework. Additional mitigations include implementing network-level restrictions to limit access to the dashboard, deploying intrusion detection systems to monitor for suspicious authentication bypass attempts, and conducting regular security audits of API endpoint implementations. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of maintaining consistent architectural patterns and proper security framework integration, particularly in systems where multiple frameworks interact and authentication controls must be uniformly enforced across all interfaces.