In Apache Spark versions prior to 3.4.0, applications using spark-submit can specify a 'proxy-user' to run as, limiting privileges. The application can execute code with the privileges of the submitting user, however, by providing malicious configuration-related classes on the classpath. This affects architectures relying on proxy-user, for example those using Apache Livy to manage submitted applications.
The CVSS score for this vulnerability is 6.4, indicating a medium severity level. This matters because it signifies that while the exploit complexity is low, the potential impact on confidentiality and integrity is moderate. Organizations that utilize Apache Spark must be aware of the risks associated with this vulnerability.
Risk to organizations includes unauthorized code execution with the privileges of the submitting user, which could lead to data exposure or manipulation. Organizations should address this issue in their priority patch cycle.
Currently, there are no known exploits in the wild for this vulnerability, which allows organizations some leeway in remediation. However, organizations should prioritize patching immediately to mitigate the risk.
Vulnerability Details
This vulnerability allows applications to run as a specified 'proxy-user', which limits privileges. However, it can be exploited by executing code with the privileges of the submitting user through malicious classpath configurations. The vulnerability affects Apache Spark versions prior to 3.4.0.
The CVSS score from the National Vulnerability Database is 9.9, indicating a critical vulnerability, but the primary analysis suggests a medium severity due to how the vulnerability can be exploited. Organizations are advised to update to Apache Spark 3.4.0 or later and ensure specific configurations are set correctly.
The vulnerability is classified under CWE-269, which relates to improper privilege management.
Technical Analysis
The root cause of this vulnerability stems from the ability of applications to specify a proxy user without sufficient restrictions on classpath configurations. This allows for potential code execution under the identity of the submitting user.
The attack vector is network-based, with low attack complexity and low privileges required to exploit this vulnerability. There is no requirement for user interaction, which increases the risk profile. The impact on confidentiality and integrity is low, while availability is unaffected.
Risk & Impact Analysis
Organizations using Apache Spark must consider the real-world deployment risk associated with this vulnerability. The ease of exploitation combined with the potential for privilege escalation poses a significant threat, especially in architectures reliant on proxy-user configurations.
The blast radius for this vulnerability can be extensive, particularly in environments that leverage Apache Livy or similar frameworks. Organizations should assess their configurations to ensure that they are not inadvertently allowing malicious classpath modifications.
Urgency is heightened due to the medium CVSS score, and organizations should address this vulnerability in their priority patch cycle.
Exploitation Status
Signal | Status |
|---|---|
Known Exploit | No |
Public PoC | No |
Actively Exploited | No |
Ransomware Use | No |
Affected Versions
The vulnerability affects all Apache Spark versions prior to 3.4.0. Organizations are advised to update to this version to mitigate risks associated with this vulnerability.
Mitigation & Remediation
To remediate this vulnerability, organizations should update to Apache Spark 3.4.0 or later. Additionally, they must ensure that the configuration setting spark.submit.proxyUser.allowCustomClasspathInClusterMode is set to its default of "false" and not overridden by submitted applications.
Detection Guidance
Organizations should monitor logs for indicators of unauthorized changes to classpath configurations or unusual proxy-user activity, as these may signal attempts to exploit this vulnerability.
AppSecure Threat Intelligence Insight
This vulnerability highlights the importance of managing user privileges and configurations within Apache Spark environments. Security teams should implement strict controls around proxy-user configurations to prevent potential exploitation.
For further insights, organizations can refer to our penetration testing methodology for securing their applications and preventing similar vulnerabilities.
Additionally, reviewing our vulnerability management program design can help organizations better prepare for future vulnerabilities.
Finally, organizations should consider implementing our API penetration testing guide to enhance their security posture against similar attack vectors.
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
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