CVE-2020-17526 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

Apache Airflow prior to version 1.10.14 is affected by an Incorrect Session Validation vulnerability that allows unauthorized access between different Airflow Webserver instances.

Understanding CVE-2020-17526

This CVE describes a security issue in Apache Airflow that could lead to unauthorized access.

What is CVE-2020-17526?

The vulnerability in Apache Airflow Webserver versions before 1.10.14 with default configuration allows a malicious user to access an unauthorized Airflow Webserver on a different site through a session from another site.

The Impact of CVE-2020-17526

The vulnerability enables a malicious user to bypass security measures and access sensitive information on Airflow Webserver instances.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-17526

Apache Airflow is affected by an Incorrect Session Validation vulnerability with the following details:

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allows a malicious user to access an unauthorized Airflow Webserver on a different site through a session from another site.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Apache Airflow
Vendor: Apache Software Foundation
Versions Affected: Apache Airflow less than 1.10.14

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability occurs due to incorrect session validation in Airflow Webserver instances with default configurations.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2020-17526, consider the following steps:

Immediate Steps to Take

Change the default value for

[webserver] secret_key

config to enhance security.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly review and update Airflow configurations to prevent similar vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Update Apache Airflow to version 1.10.14 or newer to mitigate the vulnerability.