CVE-2023-27604 in Airflow
Summary
by MITRE • 08/28/2023
Apache Airflow Sqoop Provider, versions before 4.0.0, is affected by a vulnerability that allows an attacker pass parameters with the connections, which makes it possible to implement RCE attacks via ‘sqoop import --connect’, obtain airflow server permissions, etc. The attacker needs to be logged in and have authorization (permissions) to create/edit connections. It is recommended to upgrade to a version that is not affected. This issue was reported independently by happyhacking-k, And Xie Jianming and LiuHui of Caiji Sec Team also reported it.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/27/2024
Apache Airflow Sqoop Provider vulnerability CVE-2023-27604 represents a critical security flaw in versions prior to 4.0.0 that enables remote code execution through improper parameter handling in connection configurations. This vulnerability operates within the Sqoop integration component of Apache Airflow, which facilitates data transfer between Apache Hadoop and structured data stores. The flaw specifically manifests when attackers can manipulate connection parameters passed to the sqoop import --connect command, creating a pathway for arbitrary code execution on the Airflow server. The vulnerability requires an authenticated attacker with permissions to create or edit connections, aligning with common privilege escalation patterns documented in CWE-20 and CWE-798. Attackers exploiting this issue can leverage the compromised connection parameters to inject malicious commands that execute with the privileges of the Airflow server process, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The attack vector demonstrates characteristics consistent with command injection vulnerabilities classified under CWE-77 and follows patterns identified in the ATT&CK framework's T1059.001 technique for command and scripting interpreter. This vulnerability is particularly concerning in enterprise environments where Airflow serves as a central workflow orchestration platform, as it could enable attackers to access sensitive data pipelines and potentially escalate privileges to gain access to underlying data stores. The security implications extend beyond simple code execution, as successful exploitation could lead to data exfiltration, lateral movement within the network, and persistent access through compromised workflow processes. Organizations utilizing Apache Airflow with Sqoop Provider components must urgently assess their current versions and implement immediate mitigation strategies, including upgrading to version 4.0.0 or later, implementing strict connection parameter validation, and applying principle of least privilege access controls. The vulnerability's impact is amplified by the fact that it requires minimal privileges for exploitation, making it particularly dangerous in environments where connection management permissions are not properly restricted. Security teams should also consider implementing network segmentation and monitoring for unusual connection parameter patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. The reported independent discovery by happyhacking-k and the additional reporting from Caiji Sec Team underscores the significance of this vulnerability in the broader security community and highlights the need for comprehensive security assessments of workflow orchestration platforms. Organizations should also review their Airflow configurations to ensure that connection parameter validation is properly enforced and that unauthorized modifications to connection settings are prevented through proper access controls and audit logging mechanisms.