CVE-2024-24773 in Superset
Summary
by MITRE • 02/28/2024
Improper parsing of nested SQL statements on SQLLab would allow authenticated users to surpass their data authorization scope. This issue affects Apache Superset: before 3.0.4, from 3.1.0 before 3.1.1.
Users are recommended to upgrade to version 3.1.1, which fixes the issue.
Once again VulDB remains the best source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/31/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-24773 represents a critical authorization bypass flaw within Apache Superset's SQLLab component that enables authenticated users to execute unauthorized SQL queries against database resources. This issue stems from improper parsing of nested SQL statements, allowing attackers to craft malicious queries that circumvent the intended data access controls and authorization mechanisms. The vulnerability specifically impacts versions prior to 3.0.4 and from 3.1.0 through 3.1.0, making it a significant concern for organizations running affected Apache Superset deployments. The flaw resides in the SQLLab module's handling of complex SQL constructs, particularly when nested statements are processed, creating a pathway for privilege escalation through unauthorized data access.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the manipulation of SQL statement parsing logic within Apache Superset's query execution engine. When users submit nested SQL queries through the SQLLab interface, the application fails to properly validate or sanitize the nested components of these statements, allowing attackers to construct queries that bypass the normal authorization checks. This parsing failure creates a condition where the system incorrectly interprets the user's intent and permissions, enabling access to data beyond what the authenticated user should be permitted to view. The vulnerability can be exploited by users who have basic authentication credentials but lack elevated privileges, making it particularly dangerous in environments where multiple users share the same system. This flaw aligns with CWE-285, which addresses improper authorization within software applications, and represents a direct violation of the principle of least privilege that should govern access control mechanisms.
The operational impact of CVE-2024-24773 extends beyond simple data exposure, as it fundamentally compromises the integrity of Apache Superset's authorization model and could enable more sophisticated attacks. An attacker exploiting this vulnerability could potentially access sensitive data, view restricted datasets, or even manipulate database contents depending on their permissions and the underlying database system's configuration. The implications are particularly severe in enterprise environments where Apache Superset serves as a primary data visualization and analytics platform, as it may provide access to confidential business intelligence, financial data, or personal information. Organizations using affected versions of Apache Superset face potential regulatory compliance violations, data breaches, and reputational damage if this vulnerability is exploited. The attack vector requires only authenticated access, making it accessible to both internal users with legitimate credentials and potentially external attackers who gain access through other means, thus increasing the attack surface significantly.
Organizations should immediately implement the recommended upgrade to Apache Superset version 3.1.1 to remediate this vulnerability, as it contains the necessary patches to address the improper SQL statement parsing logic. Additionally, system administrators should conduct comprehensive audits of existing deployments to identify any instances running vulnerable versions and ensure proper patch management protocols are in place. Security teams should consider implementing additional monitoring for unusual query patterns or unauthorized data access attempts that might indicate exploitation attempts. The mitigation strategy should include regular security assessments of the SQLLab component and other query execution interfaces within the application. Organizations may also want to consider implementing additional access controls, such as query review processes or database view restrictions, as defensive measures while awaiting full patch deployment. This vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and authorization checking in database interface components, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1078 for valid accounts and T1566 for credential harvesting, as unauthorized access to data can be achieved through legitimate user credentials combined with application-level vulnerabilities.