CVE-2019-10084 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

Apache Impala versions 2.7.0 to 3.2.0 are vulnerable to a privilege escalation issue that allows authenticated users to manipulate active queries or sessions, potentially bypassing authorization and audit mechanisms.

Understanding CVE-2019-10084

This CVE involves a security vulnerability in Apache Impala versions 2.7.0 to 3.2.0 that enables authenticated users to exploit active queries or sessions.

What is CVE-2019-10084?

An authenticated user with access to active Impala queries or sessions can manipulate them using a specially-crafted request.
This manipulation can lead to bypassing authorization and audit mechanisms.
Session and query IDs, although unique and random, are not consistently treated as sensitive information and may be exposed in logs or interfaces.
Impala deployments with Apache Sentry or Apache Ranger authorization enabled are at risk of privilege escalation.

The Impact of CVE-2019-10084

Authenticated users can potentially hijack sessions or queries from other users with higher privileges.
Incorrect audit logging may occur in Impala deployments with audit logging enabled.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-10084

Apache Impala versions 2.7.0 to 3.2.0 are susceptible to privilege escalation by authenticated users.

Vulnerability Description

Authenticated users can interact with active Impala queries or sessions, potentially bypassing authorization and audit mechanisms.
Session and query IDs are not consistently treated as sensitive information, making them vulnerable to exposure.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Impala
Vendor: Apache Software Foundation
Versions: 2.7.0 to 3.2.0

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can manipulate active queries or sessions using specially-crafted requests.
Vulnerable Impala deployments with Apache Sentry or Apache Ranger authorization may face privilege escalation.

Mitigation and Prevention

It is crucial to take immediate steps to address and prevent the exploitation of CVE-2019-10084.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Impala to a patched version that addresses the vulnerability.
Monitor and restrict access to active queries and sessions.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly review and update authorization mechanisms.
Implement secure random number generation for session and query IDs.

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches provided by Apache Software Foundation.