CVE-2020-1926 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

Apache Hive cookie signature verification was vulnerable to a timing attack, allowing potential exposure of user data. Learn more about the impact, technical details, and mitigation steps.

Understanding CVE-2020-1926

Apache Hive faced a security issue in cookie signature verification that could lead to sensitive data exposure.

What is CVE-2020-1926?

Apache Hive's cookie signature verification had a vulnerability susceptible to timing attacks, potentially enabling malicious actors to recover other users' cookie signatures.

The Impact of CVE-2020-1926

This vulnerability could have severe consequences, allowing unauthorized access to sensitive user data within Apache Hive systems.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-1926

Apache Hive's security flaw in cookie signature verification requires understanding its vulnerability, affected systems, and exploitation methods.

Vulnerability Description

The issue stemmed from Apache Hive using a non-constant time comparison in cookie signature verification, making it susceptible to timing attacks.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Apache Hive
Vendor: Apache Software Foundation
Affected Version: Apache Hive 2.3.8 (Custom Version)

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers could exploit the vulnerability to recover other users' cookie signatures due to the non-constant time comparison in the verification process.

Mitigation and Prevention

Addressing CVE-2020-1926 requires immediate actions to secure Apache Hive systems and implement long-term security measures.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Apache Hive to version 2.3.8 to mitigate the vulnerability.
Monitor and review cookie signature verification processes for any irregularities.

Long-Term Security Practices

Enhance secure coding practices to prevent similar timing attack vulnerabilities.
Conduct regular security audits and penetration testing to identify and address potential security weaknesses.

Patching and Updates

Ensure timely application of security patches and updates for Apache Hive to safeguard against known vulnerabilities.