CVE-2019-0216 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

CVE-2019-0216 was published on April 10, 2019, affecting Apache Airflow versions up to 1.10.2. The vulnerability allows an admin user to manipulate objects in the Airflow metadata database to execute arbitrary JavaScript.

Understanding CVE-2019-0216

This CVE involves a Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability in Apache Airflow.

What is CVE-2019-0216?

A malicious admin user can alter object states in the Airflow metadata database to run arbitrary JavaScript during specific page views.

The Impact of CVE-2019-0216

The vulnerability enables unauthorized execution of JavaScript code by an admin user, posing a risk of cross-site scripting attacks.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-0216

The technical aspects of this CVE include:

Vulnerability Description

Type: Stored XSS
Description: Admin users can modify object states to execute JavaScript

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Apache Airflow
Versions Affected: Apache Airflow <= 1.10.2

Exploitation Mechanism

Admin users with malicious intent can exploit the vulnerability by manipulating object states in the Airflow metadata database.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2019-0216, consider the following steps:

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Apache Airflow to a version beyond 1.10.2
Restrict admin privileges to trusted users

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly monitor and audit the Airflow metadata database
Educate users on secure coding practices

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches promptly to mitigate the risk of XSS attacks