CVE-2020-11978 : Security Advisory and Response
Learn about CVE-2020-11978, a critical vulnerability in Apache Airflow versions 1.10.10 and below, allowing authenticated users to execute arbitrary commands. Find mitigation steps and best practices here.
CVE-2020-11978 pertains to a remote code/command injection vulnerability in Apache Airflow versions 1.10.10 and below, potentially allowing authenticated users to execute arbitrary commands.
Understanding CVE-2020-11978
Apache Airflow, versions 1.10.10 and earlier, contain a critical security flaw that enables remote code/command injection through a specific example Directed Acyclic Graph (DAG) included with Airflow.
What is CVE-2020-11978?
This CVE identifies a vulnerability in Apache Airflow that permits authenticated users to execute arbitrary commands, posing a significant security risk.
The Impact of CVE-2020-11978
The vulnerability allows attackers to run unauthorized commands within the context of the user running the airflow worker/scheduler, depending on the executor in use. Users with malicious intent can exploit this flaw to compromise the system's integrity and confidentiality.
Technical Details of CVE-2020-11978
Apache Airflow's vulnerability in versions 1.10.10 and below can be further understood through the following technical details:
Vulnerability Description
The flaw enables remote code/command injection, granting authenticated users the ability to execute arbitrary commands.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Vendor: Apache Software Foundation
- Product: Apache Airflow
- Vulnerable Versions: 1.10.10 and earlier
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability can be exploited by authenticated users to run arbitrary commands within the airflow worker/scheduler's context.
Mitigation and Prevention
To address CVE-2020-11978 and enhance system security, consider the following mitigation strategies:
Immediate Steps to Take
- Disable examples by setting load_examples=False in the configuration to prevent exploitation.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update Apache Airflow to the latest secure version.
- Implement least privilege access controls to restrict user capabilities.
Patching and Updates
- Apply patches provided by Apache Software Foundation promptly to mitigate the vulnerability and enhance system security.