Apache Airflow Default Login Scanner

Apache Airflow is a platform used by developers and data engineers to programmatically author, schedule, and monitor workflows. It is used for orchestrating complex computational workflows and data processing pipelines across various components and systems. Organizations employ Apache Airflow to manage ETL processes, automate data engineering tasks, and enhance data analytics. It is extensively used in scenarios that require intricate data dependencies and data-driven automation. Additionally, Apache Airflow offers a rich user interface and allows for dynamic generation of task instances, contributing to its widespread use in large-scale data processing environments. The product is popular in industries such as finance, healthcare, and technology, where complex and critical workflow management is needed.

The scan identifies the presence of default login credentials in Apache Airflow, which indicates a security misconfiguration vulnerability. This vulnerability arises when the default username and password are not changed by the user, allowing unauthorized access to the Airflow interface. Default login credentials in applications like Apache Airflow pose a significant risk, as they may facilitate unauthorized access to sensitive data and control over workflows. Identifying this vulnerability is crucial in preventing potential attacks that could compromise data integrity and confidentiality. The detection process involves interacting with the Airflow login interface to determine if the default credentials are still in use. Successful detection helps in safeguarding workflow automation systems from unauthorized access.

The detection involves sending HTTP requests to Apache Airflow's login endpoint and inspecting the response to identify evidence of default credentials being accepted. The scanner uses a pitchfork attack method to test the default username and password combinations, specifically targeting 'airflow:airflow'. The presence of the 'csrf_token' in the response body and a HTTP status code of 302 upon successful login are indicators of successful authentication with default credentials. Additionally, the response headers are checked to confirm the creation of a session. These technical checks are designed to ensure the precision of identifying active default login vulnerabilities in Apache Airflow deployments. Moreover, the scanner checks for redirection and session creation as part of the validation process.

When default login credentials are exploited by attackers, it could lead to unauthorized access to the Airflow system. This can result in data breaches, unauthorized data manipulation, or disruption of workflow processes. Attackers may also leverage this access to deploy malicious payloads, alter existing tasks, or extract sensitive information. Such incidents can compromise the operational integrity and security of critical data processing systems, causing financial and reputational damage to the affected organization. Ensuring that default credentials are removed or changed is essential in mitigating these risks. Failure to do so could result in significant security vulnerabilities within the organization’s digital infrastructure.

REFERENCES

• https://airflow.apache.org/docs/apache-airflow/stable/start/docker.html