CVE-2022-24288 in Airflow
Summary
by MITRE • 02/25/2022
In Apache Airflow, prior to version 2.2.4, some example DAGs did not properly sanitize user-provided params, making them susceptible to OS Command Injection from the web UI.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/28/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-24288 affects Apache Airflow versions prior to 2.2.4 and represents a critical security flaw in the handling of user-provided parameters within example DAGs. This issue specifically impacts the web UI component of Airflow where example DAGs are executed, creating a pathway for malicious actors to inject operating system commands through improperly sanitized input fields. The vulnerability stems from the inadequate validation and sanitization of parameters that are passed to system commands during DAG execution, particularly when these parameters originate from user interactions within the web interface.
The technical flaw manifests when users interact with example DAGs through the Airflow web UI and provide parameter values that are subsequently used in system command execution without proper input validation. This creates an environment where attackers can craft malicious parameter inputs that, when processed by the application, result in arbitrary command execution on the underlying operating system. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it leverages the existing example DAG functionality that is designed for demonstration purposes but can be exploited in production environments where these examples are modified or used directly. The flaw aligns with CWE-78, which specifically addresses OS Command Injection vulnerabilities where untrusted data is incorporated into system commands without proper sanitization.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents a significant risk to organizations using Apache Airflow for workflow automation and data processing. Attackers who gain access to the web UI can execute arbitrary commands on the Airflow server, potentially leading to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, or disruption of critical business processes. The impact extends beyond simple command execution as it can enable attackers to escalate privileges, install backdoors, or use the compromised system as a pivot point for further attacks within the network infrastructure. The vulnerability affects not only the immediate system but also any downstream processes or data that Airflow manages, creating cascading security implications for organizations relying on automated workflows.
Organizations should prioritize immediate mitigation by upgrading to Apache Airflow version 2.2.4 or later, which includes proper parameter sanitization and validation mechanisms. Additional defensive measures include implementing strict access controls for the web UI, regularly auditing example DAG configurations, and monitoring for suspicious parameter usage patterns. Network segmentation and firewall rules should be implemented to limit access to Airflow web interfaces to authorized personnel only. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of following the principle of least privilege and ensuring that example DAGs are not executed with elevated system privileges. Security teams should conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify any custom DAGs that may be susceptible to similar issues and implement robust input validation across all user-facing interfaces within the Airflow ecosystem. This vulnerability exemplifies the broader ATT&CK technique of command injection and underscores the critical need for secure coding practices in automation platforms that handle user-provided data.