CVE-2023-51232 in Dagster
Summary
by MITRE • 07/07/2025
Directory Traversal vulnerability in dagster-webserver Dagster thru 1.0.3 allows remote attackers to obtain sensitive information via crafted request to the /logs endpoint. This may be restricted to certain file names that start with a dot ('.').
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/07/2025
The CVE-2023-51232 vulnerability represents a directory traversal flaw within the dagster-webserver component of the Dagster data orchestration platform through version 1.0.3. This vulnerability specifically affects the /logs endpoint and enables remote attackers to access sensitive information through carefully crafted HTTP requests. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation and path sanitization mechanisms within the web server's handling of log file requests, creating a potential avenue for unauthorized data access and information disclosure.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits the web server's failure to properly sanitize user-supplied input when processing requests to the /logs endpoint. Attackers can manipulate the request parameters to traverse directory structures and access files that should normally be restricted. The vulnerability appears to be particularly relevant when file names begin with a dot character, suggesting that the implementation may not adequately filter or validate filenames that start with hidden file indicators. This behavior aligns with common directory traversal patterns where attackers exploit path resolution mechanisms to access files outside of intended directories. The issue demonstrates a classic lack of proper access control and input validation that can be categorized under CWE-22, which specifically addresses directory traversal vulnerabilities.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, potentially exposing sensitive operational data, configuration files, or system logs that could aid attackers in planning further exploits. In a production environment, this vulnerability could allow unauthorized users to access critical system information, potentially compromising the integrity and confidentiality of the entire data orchestration platform. The restricted nature of the vulnerability to files beginning with a dot suggests that attackers might need to identify specific target files or directories that meet these naming conventions, but this limitation does not eliminate the security risk. Organizations utilizing Dagster webserver components could face significant exposure if this vulnerability is exploited, particularly in environments where sensitive operational data is stored in log files or where the platform is exposed to untrusted network traffic.
Mitigation strategies should prioritize immediate patching of affected versions to address the directory traversal vulnerability. Organizations should implement proper input validation and sanitization measures for all user-supplied data, particularly when processing file paths or names. The implementation of a whitelist-based approach for acceptable file names and paths can significantly reduce the risk of directory traversal attacks. Network segmentation and access controls should be enforced to limit exposure of the web server to untrusted networks, while monitoring and logging should be enhanced to detect suspicious requests to the /logs endpoint. Security teams should also consider implementing web application firewalls that can detect and block common directory traversal patterns. The vulnerability underscores the importance of following secure coding practices and conducting regular security assessments to identify and remediate similar flaws in application components. Additionally, organizations should review their file access controls and ensure that sensitive files are properly protected from unauthorized access through proper file system permissions and access control lists. This vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical need for robust input validation and access control mechanisms in web applications, particularly those handling sensitive operational data in data orchestration platforms.