CVE-2022-43982 is a cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability identified in Apache Airflow, an open-source platform widely used for programmatically authoring, scheduling, and monitoring workflows. This vulnerability affects versions prior to 2.4.2 and specifically targets the "Trigger DAG with config" screen. The flaw arises from improper neutralization of input during web page generation, where the `origin` query argument is not correctly sanitized. An attacker can craft a malicious URL containing a specially crafted `origin` parameter that, when visited by an authenticated user, could execute arbitrary JavaScript in the context of the Airflow web interface. This can lead to theft of session tokens, manipulation of the user interface, or other malicious actions within the scope of the user's privileges. The vulnerability has a CVSS 3.1 base score of 6.1, indicating a medium severity level. The vector details (AV:N/AC:L/PR:N/UI:R/S:C/C:L/I:L/A:N) show that the attack can be launched remotely over the network without privileges but requires user interaction (clicking a crafted link). The scope is changed (S:C), meaning the vulnerability can affect resources beyond the initially vulnerable component. Confidentiality and integrity impacts are low, with no impact on availability. No known exploits in the wild have been reported to date. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-79, which covers improper neutralization of input leading to XSS. The issue was reserved on 2022-10-28 and published on 2022-11-02. No official patch links are provided in the data, but upgrading to Apache Airflow 2.4.2 or later is understood to remediate the issue.

For European organizations using Apache Airflow, especially those deploying it in production environments for critical workflow orchestration, this vulnerability poses a risk of session hijacking and unauthorized actions via XSS attacks. While the impact on confidentiality and integrity is rated low, the ability to execute arbitrary scripts in the context of the Airflow web UI could allow attackers to escalate privileges or manipulate workflows, potentially disrupting business processes. Organizations in sectors such as finance, manufacturing, telecommunications, and public services that rely on Airflow for data pipelines and automation could face operational risks if attackers exploit this vulnerability. The requirement for user interaction limits automated exploitation but does not eliminate risk, particularly in environments where users may be targeted with phishing or social engineering to click malicious links. The changed scope indicates that the vulnerability could affect components beyond the immediate web interface, potentially impacting integrated systems. Given the widespread adoption of Apache Airflow in Europe, the threat is relevant to organizations managing complex data workflows and automation.

1. Upgrade Apache Airflow to version 2.4.2 or later, where this vulnerability is fixed. 2. Implement strict Content Security Policy (CSP) headers on the Airflow web server to restrict the execution of unauthorized scripts and reduce the impact of potential XSS attacks. 3. Employ web application firewalls (WAFs) with custom rules to detect and block malicious payloads targeting the `origin` query parameter. 4. Educate users on the risks of clicking unsolicited links, especially those purporting to interact with Airflow interfaces. 5. Restrict access to the Airflow web UI to trusted networks or via VPN to reduce exposure to external attackers. 6. Monitor Airflow logs for unusual access patterns or repeated attempts to exploit query parameters. 7. Use security headers such as HttpOnly and Secure flags on cookies to protect session tokens from theft via XSS. 8. Conduct regular security assessments and penetration testing focusing on web interface input validation and sanitization.