CVE-2023-51785 in InLong
Summary
by MITRE • 01/03/2024
Deserialization of Untrusted Data vulnerability in Apache InLong.This issue affects Apache InLong: from 1.7.0 through 1.9.0, the attackers can make a arbitrary file read attack using mysql driver. Users are advised to upgrade to Apache InLong's 1.10.0 or cherry-pick [1] to solve it.
[1] https://github.com/apache/inlong/pull/9331
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/06/2024
The CVE-2023-51785 vulnerability represents a critical deserialization of untrusted data flaw within Apache InLong versions 1.7.0 through 1.9.0, exposing systems to arbitrary file read attacks through the mysql driver component. This vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization mechanisms that allow malicious actors to exploit the deserialization process, potentially leading to unauthorized data access and system compromise. The flaw specifically leverages the mysql driver's handling of untrusted data inputs, creating a pathway for attackers to execute arbitrary file read operations. The vulnerability classification aligns with CWE-502 which specifically addresses deserialization of untrusted data, making it a well-documented and severe security concern in software development practices. This issue demonstrates the critical importance of proper data validation and input sanitization in database connectivity components.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when Apache InLong processes data from the mysql driver without adequate validation of the input parameters. Attackers can craft malicious serialized data that, when processed by the vulnerable system, triggers the deserialization routine to read arbitrary files from the system. The mysql driver component acts as the attack vector, where untrusted data from external sources or malformed inputs can be manipulated to cause unintended file system access. This particular flaw allows attackers to potentially access sensitive configuration files, database credentials, or other system files that should remain protected. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates at the deserialization layer where data transformations occur, making it difficult to detect through traditional network monitoring approaches. The attack scenario typically involves an attacker providing malicious input that gets processed through the mysql driver, which then triggers the deserialization process and enables the arbitrary file read capability.
The operational impact of CVE-2023-51785 extends beyond simple data exposure, potentially enabling more severe compromise scenarios within Apache InLong deployments. Organizations using affected versions face risks of data breaches, credential theft, and potential lateral movement within their infrastructure. The vulnerability's exploitation can lead to unauthorized access to sensitive operational data, system configuration files, and potentially database connection details that could be used for further attacks. This deserialization flaw creates a persistent threat vector that remains active as long as the vulnerable version remains in use, making it particularly dangerous for long-running systems. The vulnerability also impacts compliance requirements and security audits, as it represents a known weakness that could be exploited by adversaries. The attack surface is expanded due to the mysql driver's common usage patterns in data processing pipelines, making it a prime target for threat actors seeking to compromise data processing systems.
Organizations should immediately upgrade to Apache InLong version 1.10.0 to remediate this vulnerability, as this release contains the necessary patches to address the deserialization flaw. The recommended mitigation approach includes implementing the cherry-pick from the referenced pull request number 9331, which provides the specific code fixes needed to prevent the arbitrary file read attacks. System administrators should also implement additional monitoring and logging around the mysql driver components to detect potential exploitation attempts. The patch addresses the root cause by strengthening input validation and sanitization mechanisms within the deserialization process, preventing malicious serialized data from triggering unintended file system operations. Security teams should conduct thorough assessments of their Apache InLong deployments to identify any systems still running vulnerable versions and ensure proper patch management procedures are in place. This vulnerability serves as a reminder of the importance of regular security updates and the need for robust input validation practices in database connectivity components. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this type of vulnerability under T1566 - Phishing and T1071 - Application Layer Protocol, as it enables initial access and lateral movement through data system exploitation, making it a significant concern for enterprise security postures.