CVE-2021-28359 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

Apache Airflow, developed by the Apache Software Foundation, is a popular platform for programmatically authoring, scheduling, and monitoring workflows. CVE-2021-28359 exposes a vulnerability where the 'origin' parameter in certain endpoints like '/trigger' is susceptible to Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) attacks.

Understanding CVE-2021-28359

This CVE affects versions of Apache Airflow prior to 1.10.15 in the 1.x series and versions 2.0.0, 2.0.1, and 2.x series. Although attempts were made to address this issue in previous CVEs like CVE-2020-13944 and CVE-2020-17515, the fixes were incomplete.

What is CVE-2021-28359?

The vulnerability in CVE-2021-28359, known as a Reflected XSS via the Origin Parameter, allows attackers to execute malicious scripts within the context of a user's session, thereby compromising sensitive data or credentials.

The Impact of CVE-2021-28359

This security flaw could lead to unauthorized access to user data, cookie theft, session hijacking, and potentially full system compromise if exploited successfully.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-28359

The vulnerability arises due to inadequate input validation of the 'origin' parameter and can be triggered by manipulating specific URLs within Apache Airflow.

Vulnerability Description

The 'origin' parameter, utilized in endpoints like '/trigger', lacks proper sanitization, enabling malicious actors to inject and execute arbitrary scripts.

Affected Systems and Versions

Apache Airflow versions prior to 1.10.15 and versions 2.0.0, 2.0.1, and 2.x are susceptible to this XSS vulnerability.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can craft URLs with malicious payloads in the 'origin' parameter, tricking users into clicking these links and executing scripts unintentionally.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2021-28359 and protect systems from exploitation, users are advised to take immediate action.

Immediate Steps to Take

Upgrade Apache Airflow to version 1.10.15 or 2.0.2, which contain patches for this vulnerability. Additionally, ensure that the Python version in use is updated to the latest PATCH release.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement strict input validation mechanisms, sanitize user input, and regularly update both Apache Airflow and Python to mitigate future security risks.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security advisories from Apache Software Foundation and promptly apply patches and updates to safeguard against known vulnerabilities.