CVE-2023-49198 in SeaTunnel Web
Summary
by MITRE • 08/21/2024
Mysql security vulnerability in Apache SeaTunnel.
Attackers can read files on the MySQL server by modifying the information in the MySQL URL
allowLoadLocalInfile=true&allowUrlInLocalInfile=true&allowLoadLocalInfileInPath=/&maxAllowedPacket=655360 This issue affects Apache SeaTunnel: 1.0.0.
Users are recommended to upgrade to version [1.0.1], which fixes the issue.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/24/2024
The vulnerability CVE-2023-49198 represents a critical security flaw in Apache SeaTunnel version 1.0.0 that stems from improper handling of MySQL connection parameters. This vulnerability allows remote attackers to execute unauthorized file read operations on the MySQL server through manipulation of the MySQL URL connection string. The specific exploit involves setting multiple parameters including allowLoadLocalInfile=true, allowUrlInLocalInfile=true, allowLoadLocalInfileInPath=/, and maxAllowedPacket=655360 which collectively enable malicious file access patterns. The flaw resides in how Apache SeaTunnel processes these MySQL connection options, creating a pathway for attackers to bypass normal file system access controls and potentially extract sensitive data from the database server.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability follows a classic path to privilege escalation through insecure parameter handling. When the MySQL URL contains allowLoadLocalInfile=true, it enables the LOAD DATA LOCAL INFILE functionality which should normally be restricted. The additional parameters allowUrlInLocalInfile=true and allowLoadLocalInfileInPath=/ further weaken security boundaries by permitting URL-based file access and setting the file path to root directory. This combination creates a dangerous configuration that allows attackers to specify arbitrary file paths for reading operations. The maxAllowedPacket parameter increases the maximum packet size, facilitating larger data transfers. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-22 (Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory) and CWE-73 (External Control of File Name or Path) which both address improper file path handling and insecure file access controls. The flaw operates at the application level where connection string parameters are processed without proper validation or sanitization.
The operational impact of CVE-2023-49198 is severe and multifaceted across enterprise environments using Apache SeaTunnel for data processing and integration. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to access sensitive database files, configuration files, and potentially system files that contain credentials, personal data, or proprietary information. The vulnerability affects data integrity and confidentiality, as unauthorized file reads can expose critical business data. Organizations may face compliance violations under regulations such as gdpr, hipaa, and pci dss due to unauthorized data access. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it requires minimal privileges to exploit and can be executed remotely through the connection string manipulation. This vulnerability can be exploited in various attack scenarios including data exfiltration, credential theft, and system reconnaissance. The impact extends beyond immediate data loss as it can serve as a foothold for further attacks within the network infrastructure.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2023-49198 center on immediate software upgrades and configuration hardening. The primary and recommended solution is upgrading to Apache SeaTunnel version 1.0.1 which contains the necessary patches to address the vulnerability. Organizations should also implement strict parameter validation for all MySQL connection strings, particularly disabling allowLoadLocalInfile and related parameters unless absolutely required for legitimate operations. Network segmentation and firewall rules should restrict direct access to MySQL servers from untrusted networks. The principle of least privilege should be enforced by configuring MySQL server settings to disable local file loading features entirely. Additionally, monitoring and logging of database connection attempts should be enhanced to detect suspicious parameter usage patterns. Security teams should review all existing connection strings and configuration files to ensure no instances of the vulnerable parameters remain in use. This vulnerability demonstrates the importance of input validation and parameter sanitization in database connectivity components, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1078 (Valid Accounts) and T1566 (Phishing) where attackers may leverage such vulnerabilities to establish persistent access to systems.