CVE-2021-22160 : What You Need to Know
Learn about CVE-2021-22160 impacting Apache Pulsar, allowing unauthorized access via 'none' JWT algorithm. Find mitigation steps and update recommendations here.
Apache Pulsar, an open-source distributed messaging system, is vulnerable when configured to authenticate clients using JSON Web Tokens (JWT). An attacker can exploit this flaw in versions below 2.7.1 to connect to Pulsar instances as any user, including admins.
Understanding CVE-2021-22160
This CVE highlights a critical vulnerability in Apache Pulsar related to JWT authentication.
What is CVE-2021-22160?
CVE-2021-22160 exposes a weakness in Apache Pulsar's token validation mechanism when the presented token uses the "none" algorithm, allowing unauthorized access to Pulsar instances.
The Impact of CVE-2021-22160
The security issue enables malicious actors to connect to Apache Pulsar instances utilizing JWT tokens with the algorithm set to "none", potentially leading to unauthorized access and data manipulation.
Technical Details of CVE-2021-22160
The technical aspects of the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
When Apache Pulsar is set up to validate client tokens with JWT, it fails to verify the signature if the token's algorithm is set to "none", permitting unauthorized access.
Affected Systems and Versions
Apache Pulsar versions prior to 2.7.1 are impacted by this vulnerability.
Exploitation Mechanism
Exploiting this vulnerability involves presenting a token with the algorithm set to "none" during JWT authentication, enabling unauthorized access to Pulsar instances.
Mitigation and Prevention
Effective steps to mitigate and prevent exploitation of CVE-2021-22160.
Immediate Steps to Take
Immediately update Apache Pulsar to version 2.7.1 or higher to mitigate the vulnerability. Verify and validate JWT tokens properly to ensure secure authentication.
Long-Term Security Practices
Establish robust token validation procedures, enforce secure authentication practices, and stay informed about security updates and best practices to enhance system security.
Patching and Updates
Regularly apply security patches released by Apache Software Foundation to address vulnerabilities and ensure the ongoing protection of Apache Pulsar installations.