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CVE-2024-39887: Medium Vulnerability in Apache Superset

An SQL Injection vulnerability exists in Apache Superset, allowing unauthorized access through unvalidated SQL functions. Organizations should upgrade to version 4.0.2 immediately to mitigate risks.

MEDIUMCVSS 4.3 · Published July 16, 2024

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An SQL Injection vulnerability in Apache Superset exists due to improper neutralization of special elements used in SQL commands. Specifically, certain engine-specific functions are not checked, which allows attackers to bypass Apache Superset's SQL authorization. To mitigate this, a new configuration key named DISALLOWED_SQL_FUNCTIONS has been introduced. This key disallows the use of the following PostgreSQL functions: version, query_to_xml, inet_server_addr, and inet_client_addr. Additional functions can be added to this list for increased protection.

This issue affects Apache Superset: before 4.0.2. Users are recommended to upgrade to version 4.0.2, which fixes the issue. The vulnerability has a CVSS score of 4.3, indicating a medium severity level. It is crucial for organizations to understand the potential risks associated with this vulnerability, as it can lead to unauthorized access and data breaches.

Risk to organizations includes the potential for unauthorized access to sensitive data, which could lead to further exploitation or data loss. Organizations should prioritize patching immediately to ensure their systems are secure. While this vulnerability is not currently known to be actively exploited, timely remediation is essential.

In light of these factors, it is recommended that organizations conduct a thorough review of their Apache Superset installations and ensure they are updated to the latest version to mitigate the risks associated with this vulnerability.

Vulnerability Details

An SQL Injection vulnerability in Apache Superset exists due to improper neutralization of special elements used in SQL commands. The CVSS score is 4.3, indicating a medium severity, and it impacts Apache Superset versions prior to 4.0.2. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-89, which relates to SQL Injection. This vulnerability allows attackers to bypass SQL authorization, leading to potential data exposure.

Technical Analysis

The root cause of this vulnerability lies in the improper validation of SQL functions within Apache Superset. Attackers can exploit this flaw by sending crafted SQL commands that utilize engine-specific functions not checked by the application. The attack vector is network-based, requiring low attack complexity and low privileges.

No user interaction is required to exploit this vulnerability, and it impacts confidentiality, integrity, and availability at a low level. Organizations should ensure proper validation and configuration of SQL functions to mitigate the risks associated with this vulnerability.

Risk & Impact Analysis

The real-world deployment risk of this vulnerability is significant, particularly for organizations that rely on Apache Superset for data visualization and analysis. The potential blast radius includes unauthorized access to sensitive data, which can lead to data breaches and compliance violations.

With a CVSS score of 4.3 and an EPSS percentile of 98.5, organizations should address this vulnerability in their priority patch cycle. The urgency is moderate, but organizations should not underestimate the impact of SQL injection vulnerabilities, which can lead to severe consequences if exploited.

Signal

Status

Known Exploit

No

Public PoC

No

Actively Exploited

No

Ransomware Use

No

Affected Versions

All versions of Apache Superset prior to 4.0.2 are affected by this vulnerability. Organizations should ensure that they are running the latest version to mitigate the risk.

Mitigation & Remediation

To mitigate this vulnerability, users are strongly encouraged to upgrade to Apache Superset version 4.0.2. This version includes new configuration options, including the DISALLOWED_SQL_FUNCTIONS key, which helps prevent the use of unsafe SQL functions. Organizations should also consider implementing additional security measures, such as proper input validation and monitoring.

For more details on securing applications, organizations can explore our comprehensive guide on application security assessment and related best practices.

Detection Guidance

Organizations should monitor logs for unusual SQL activity and look for anomalies in database queries that may indicate exploitation attempts. Implementing network signatures that detect patterns associated with SQL injection attempts can also be beneficial.

AppSecure Threat Intelligence Insight

The SQL Injection vulnerability in Apache Superset highlights a common weakness in many web applications. Security teams should consider this incident as a reminder to implement robust input validation and to regularly update their software to mitigate similar risks in the future. Continuous security assessments, such as continuous penetration testing, can help identify and address vulnerabilities proactively.

For further reading on the importance of vulnerability management, see our article on vulnerability management program. Additionally, understanding the nuances of penetration testing is crucial. Explore our penetration testing methodology guide to enhance your security posture.

Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.

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