CVE-2023-39441 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Discover the impact of CVE-2023-39441 on Apache Airflow SMTP Provider, IMAP Provider, and Apache Airflow. Learn about the vulnerability, affected versions, and mitigation steps.
This article provides insights into CVE-2023-39441, affecting Apache Airflow components, highlighting the impact, technical details, and mitigation steps.
Understanding CVE-2023-39441
CVE-2023-39441 targets the Apache Airflow SMTP Provider, IMAP Provider, and Apache Airflow itself, exposing a validation of OpenSSL Certificate vulnerability.
What is CVE-2023-39441?
Apache Airflow SMTP Provider before 1.3.0, Apache Airflow IMAP Provider before 3.3.0, and Apache Airflow before 2.7.0 are impacted by this vulnerability. The SSL context did not validate the server's X.509 certificate, potentially leading to the disclosure of sensitive data.
The Impact of CVE-2023-39441
The absence of proper certificate validation could allow attackers in a MITM position to intercept mail server credentials or content, posing a significant security risk.
Technical Details of CVE-2023-39441
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability arises from the lack of verification of X.509 certificates by the default SSL context in impacted Apache Airflow components, enabling unauthorized disclosure of data during connections.
Affected Systems and Versions
Apache Airflow SMTP Provider < 1.3.0, Apache Airflow IMAP Provider < 3.3.0, and Apache Airflow < 2.7.0 are vulnerable to this issue.
Exploitation Mechanism
Attackers positioned in the middle of a connection can exploit the lack of certificate validation to intercept and potentially manipulate sensitive information.
Mitigation and Prevention
Immediate Steps to Take
To address CVE-2023-39441, users are strongly advised to upgrade to Apache Airflow version 2.7.0 or newer, Apache Airflow IMAP Provider version 3.3.0 or newer, and Apache Airflow SMTP Provider version 1.3.0 or newer.
Long-Term Security Practices
Regularly updating software components and implementing secure communication protocols can help prevent similar vulnerabilities in the future.
Patching and Updates
Ensure timely application of security patches provided by Apache for the affected components to enhance security posture.