This vulnerability allows unauthorized users to update configuration properties on restricted components in Apache NiFi versions 1.1.0 through 2.7.2. The CVSS score of 8.7 categorizes this as a high-severity issue, indicating significant potential impact on affected systems. The risk to organizations includes the possibility of unauthorized changes that can compromise the integrity and configuration of critical data flows.
Apache NiFi installations that do not implement different levels of authorization for restricted components are not subject to this vulnerability. However, those that do are at risk, as the vulnerability permits less privileged users to alter critical configurations without proper checks. Organizations should prioritize patching immediately.
The published date of the vulnerability is February 17, 2026, and it has been analyzed and confirmed by the Apache security team. Given the high CVSS score and the potential for exploitation, swift action is recommended to upgrade to Apache NiFi version 2.8.0, which addresses this security issue.
The vulnerability is characterized by its attack vector over the network, low complexity, and the requirement of high privileges for exploitation. Therefore, organizations with appropriate security configurations are less likely to be affected but should remain vigilant.
Vulnerability Details
Apache NiFi 1.1.0 through 2.7.2 are missing authorization when updating configuration properties on extension components that have specific Required Permissions based on the Restricted annotation. The Restricted annotation indicates additional privileges required to add the annotated component to the flow configuration, but framework authorization did not check restricted status when updating a component previously added. The missing authorization requires a more privileged user to add a restricted component to the flow configuration, but permits a less privileged user to make property configuration changes.
Apache NiFi installations that do not implement different levels of authorization for Restricted components are not subject to this vulnerability because the framework enforces write permissions as the security boundary. Upgrading to Apache NiFi 2.8.0 is the recommended mitigation.
Technical Analysis
The root cause of this vulnerability stems from insufficient checks in the authorization framework of Apache NiFi. Specifically, it fails to verify whether a user has the required permissions when altering properties of components that have been marked as Restricted. This oversight allows users with lower privilege levels to manipulate configurations without proper authorization.
Attackers may leverage this vulnerability by exploiting the authorization gap, potentially leading to unauthorized changes that could disrupt the data flow or even compromise data integrity. The attack vector is primarily network-based, with a low complexity for execution, provided the attacker has high privileges.
An active user interaction is required to exploit this vulnerability, meaning that the attacker must be logged into the system to make unauthorized changes. The impacts on confidentiality, integrity, and availability are all rated as high, indicating a substantial risk to affected organizations.
Risk & Impact Analysis
Risk to organizations includes potential unauthorized access to sensitive configuration settings, leading to data breaches or operational disruptions. The blast radius is significant, as this vulnerability affects multiple versions of Apache NiFi, potentially impacting a wide range of deployments in various environments.
Organizations should address this vulnerability in their priority patch cycle, given the high CVSS score and the potential for exploitation. The urgency is heightened by the increasing reliance on data flows for operational integrity, making it critical to remediate this vulnerability promptly.
Exploitation Status
Signal | Status |
|---|---|
Known Exploit | No |
Public PoC | No |
Actively Exploited | No |
Ransomware Use | No |
Affected Versions
The affected versions of Apache NiFi range from 1.1.0 to 2.7.2, inclusive. Organizations using these versions should upgrade to Apache NiFi 2.8.0 to mitigate this vulnerability.
Mitigation & Remediation
Organizations should upgrade to Apache NiFi version 2.8.0 immediately to address this vulnerability. If upgrading is not possible, implementing strict access controls and monitoring configurations can help mitigate risks.
For continuous security assessments, organizations may consider leveraging continuous penetration testing to identify similar weaknesses.
Detection Guidance
Organizations should monitor logs for unauthorized attempts to change configuration properties and establish behavioral anomalies related to user permissions. Additionally, network signatures indicating unauthorized access should be defined and tracked.
AppSecure Threat Intelligence Insight
This vulnerability reflects an ongoing trend where inadequate authorization checks lead to significant security risks. Organizations must prioritize robust access controls to prevent unauthorized modifications across all components.
Security teams should also focus on conducting thorough reviews of their configuration management practices. Understanding the implications of each component's configuration can prevent similar vulnerabilities in the future.
For further insights and strategic recommendations, organizations can benefit from engaging in penetration testing methodology sessions and developing a comprehensive vulnerability management program to address security gaps.
Lastly, organizations should implement regular audits and assessments to ensure their security posture remains resilient against evolving threats.
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
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