The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-39877 affects Apache Airflow versions 2.4.0 and earlier than 2.9.3. This vulnerability allows authenticated Directed Acyclic Graph (DAG) authors to manipulate the doc_md parameter, potentially executing arbitrary code within the scheduler context, which contradicts the Airflow Security model.
With a CVSS score of 8.8, classified as high severity, it is critical for organizations to understand the implications of this vulnerability. High severity indicates significant risk, as it allows attackers with authenticated access to exploit the system, leading to severe confidentiality, integrity, and availability impacts.
The urgency for defenders cannot be overstated. Organizations utilizing vulnerable versions of Apache Airflow are advised to upgrade to version 2.9.3 or later immediately to close this security gap.
Currently, there are no known public exploits, and the vulnerability has not been included in the Known Exploited Vulnerabilities (KEV) catalog. However, the potential for exploitation exists, and proactive remediation is essential.
Vulnerability Details
The official description states: 'Apache Airflow 2.4.0, and versions before 2.9.3, has a vulnerability that allows authenticated DAG authors to craft a doc_md parameter in a way that could execute arbitrary code in the scheduler context, which should be forbidden according to the Airflow Security model. Users should upgrade to version 2.9.3 or later which has removed the vulnerability.'
This vulnerability falls under two Common Weakness Enumeration (CWE) categories: CWE-94 (Code Injection) and CWE-277 (Insufficient Access Control). The CVSS score of 8.8 highlights the critical nature of the vulnerability, emphasizing the need for immediate attention.
Apache Airflow is affected in all versions starting from 2.4.0 and prior to 2.9.3, necessitating an upgrade to version 2.9.3 or later to mitigate this risk.
Technical Analysis
The root cause of this vulnerability lies in the handling of the doc_md parameter, which allows for the execution of arbitrary code due to a lack of proper validation and access controls. The attack vector is network-based, with low complexity, meaning it can be exploited with minimal effort by an authenticated user.
Privileges required for exploitation are low, as authenticated DAG authors can leverage this vulnerability without needing additional user interaction. The impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability is rated high, indicating that the exploitation could lead to significant consequences for the organization.
Risk & Impact Analysis
Risk to organizations includes potential unauthorized access to sensitive data and the ability to execute arbitrary code, which could lead to data breaches or service disruptions. The blast radius of this vulnerability can affect all systems running vulnerable versions of Apache Airflow.
Organizations should prioritize patching immediately to mitigate these risks. The presence of a vulnerability with high CVSS score indicates a significant threat landscape that requires immediate action to protect organizational assets.
Signal | Status |
|---|---|
Known Exploit | No |
Public PoC | No |
Actively Exploited | No |
Ransomware Use | No |
Affected Versions
The vulnerable versions of Apache Airflow include all versions starting from 2.4.0 up to, but not including, 2.9.3. Users of these versions are strongly encouraged to upgrade to version 2.9.3 or later to ensure security.
Mitigation & Remediation
Organizations should upgrade to Apache Airflow version 2.9.3 or later to mitigate this vulnerability. If an immediate upgrade is not possible, consider implementing configuration changes to limit access to the doc_md parameter and enhance monitoring of user activities.
For further assistance with security assessments, organizations can refer to our application security assessment services to identify potential weaknesses.
Detection Guidance
It is crucial to monitor logs for any unauthorized access attempts related to DAG authoring. Behavioral anomalies, such as unexpected code execution or changes in user roles, should also be flagged for further investigation.
AppSecure Threat Intelligence Insight
The long-term significance of CVE-2024-39877 lies in the potential for code execution vulnerabilities within widely used applications like Apache Airflow. This incident highlights the need for rigorous security practices in development processes.
Security teams should analyze this vulnerability to derive lessons about code injection risks. For comprehensive security measures, explore our red teaming services that provide insights into potential security gaps.
Additionally, consider reviewing our penetration testing methodology to enhance your security posture.
Finally, organizations should also familiarize themselves with the latest trends in application security by reading our vulnerability management program design article.
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
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