CVE-2018-1314 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

Apache Hive versions prior to 2.3.3, 3.1.0, and earlier are vulnerable to improper access control in the "EXPLAIN" operation, allowing unauthorized users to expose table metadata and statistics.

Understanding CVE-2018-1314

This CVE involves a security vulnerability in Apache Hive that could lead to unauthorized access to sensitive information.

What is CVE-2018-1314?

Prior to versions 2.3.3, 3.1.0, and earlier, Apache Hive's "EXPLAIN" operation lacks necessary authorization checks, enabling unauthorized users to perform this operation on any table or view, potentially exposing sensitive data.

The Impact of CVE-2018-1314

The vulnerability allows unauthorized individuals to access and expose table metadata and statistics, compromising the confidentiality and integrity of the data stored in Apache Hive.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-1314

Apache Hive's vulnerability to improper access control in the "EXPLAIN" operation can have significant implications for data security.

Vulnerability Description

The issue arises from the failure of the "EXPLAIN" operation to enforce proper authorization checks on entities involved in a query, enabling unauthorized users to access and expose table metadata and statistics.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Apache Hive
Vendor: Apache Software Foundation
Versions Affected: All versions of Hive including 2.3.3, 3.1.0, and earlier

Exploitation Mechanism

Unauthorized users can exploit this vulnerability by executing the "EXPLAIN" operation on any table or view within Apache Hive, bypassing necessary authorization checks and potentially exposing sensitive data.

Mitigation and Prevention

Addressing CVE-2018-1314 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices to enhance the protection of Apache Hive environments.

Immediate Steps to Take

Upgrade Apache Hive to a patched version that includes the necessary authorization checks for the "EXPLAIN" operation.
Restrict access to Apache Hive to authorized personnel only.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement a robust access control mechanism to prevent unauthorized access to sensitive data.
Regularly monitor and audit access to Apache Hive to detect any unauthorized activities.

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches provided by Apache Software Foundation to address the vulnerability in affected versions of Apache Hive.