Mitigation Instructions for CVE-2023- 27524

SUBJECT: CVE-2023-27524: Apache Superset Insecure Default Initialization Vulnerability - Detailed Mitigation Guide

TECH STACK (AFFECTED SOFTWARE): 

•  Apache Superset versions up to and including 2.0.1

DATE(S) ISSUED: 04/24/2023

NVD Last Modified: 01/20/2024

CRITICALITY: NIST: 9.8 (CRITICAL), Apache Software Foundation: 8.9 (HIGH)

OVERVIEW: 

 This vulnerability template details the mitigation strategies for CVE-2023-27524, a critical vulnerability affecting Apache Superset versions up to and including 2.0.1. This vulnerability allows attackers to bypass authentication and access unauthorized resources due to insecure default configuration.

IMPACT

Successful exploitation of this vulnerability could allow attackers to:

• Access sensitive information, including user data and configurations.

• Modify or delete data.

• Disrupt server operations.
• Launch further attacks on the network.

Tech Stack (Affected Software)

• Apache Superset: Open-source data visualization and exploration platform

• Programming Language: Python (Flask framework)
• Database: Various databases can be used, including PostgreSQL, SQL Server, and MySQL

MITIGATION/SOLUTIONS

Here are the recommended mitigation strategies:

1. Update Apache Superset:

• The most critical mitigation strategy is to upgrade to Apache Superset version 2.1.0 or later. This version addresses the vulnerability by changing the default configuration of the SECRET_KEY. You can find download and upgrade instructions on the Apache Superset website: 

2. Change the SECRET_KEY:

• If upgrading is not immediately possible, you can mitigate the vulnerability by changing the SECRET_KEY value in your Superset configuration. This key is used to sign session cookies, and changing it will invalidate any existing attacker-generated cookies.
• It is crucial to choose a strong and random SECRET_KEY value. You can generate a secure key using online tools or password managers.

3. Implement additional security measures:

• Enable access controls: Implement access controls to restrict access to the Superset web interface only to authorized users.

• Monitor for suspicious activity: Regularly monitor your Superset server for signs of suspicious activity, such as unauthorized access attempts or unusual system behavior.
• Consider additional security practices: Explore implementing additional security measures like two-factor authentication and network segmentation to further enhance the security of your Superset deployment.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:

• Apache Superset Security Documentation

• CISA Known Exploited Vulnerabilities Catalog

• National Vulnerability Database (NVD)

CONCLUSION

• Applying the recommended mitigation strategies, especially upgrading Apache Superset or changing the SECRET_KEY, is crucial to protect your server from exploitation of CVE-2023-27524. Remember to prioritize patching critical vulnerabilities and implement additional security controls to enhance your overall security posture.