Apache DolphinScheduler is an open-source distributed workflow scheduling system widely used for managing complex data pipelines. CVE-2023-48796 is a vulnerability identified in versions 3.0.0 up to but not including 3.0.2, where sensitive information such as database credentials can be exposed to unauthorized actors. This occurs because the management endpoints, which provide health, metrics, and Prometheus data, are overly exposed by default. These endpoints can inadvertently reveal sensitive configuration details if accessed by unauthorized users. The vulnerability falls under CWE-200, indicating exposure of sensitive information without proper access controls. The issue was addressed in version 3.0.2 by restricting the exposure of these endpoints. For users unable to upgrade immediately, a workaround involves setting the environment variable MANAGEMENT_ENDPOINTS_WEB_EXPOSURE_INCLUDE to limit exposed endpoints to only health, metrics, and prometheus, or by configuring the application.yaml file accordingly. No public exploits have been reported yet, but the exposure of database credentials poses a significant risk of further compromise if exploited. The vulnerability does not require authentication or user interaction, making it easier for attackers to leverage. Given the critical role of DolphinScheduler in data workflows, unauthorized access to credentials could lead to data exfiltration, privilege escalation, or disruption of services.

For European organizations, the exposure of sensitive information such as database credentials can lead to severe consequences including unauthorized access to backend databases, data breaches, and potential disruption of critical data processing workflows. Organizations relying on Apache DolphinScheduler for data orchestration in sectors like finance, healthcare, telecommunications, and government services face heightened risks due to the sensitive nature of their data. Compromise of database credentials can facilitate lateral movement within networks, enabling attackers to access additional systems and sensitive data. This could result in regulatory non-compliance, especially under GDPR, leading to legal penalties and reputational damage. Additionally, disruption of data pipelines can impact business continuity and operational efficiency. The lack of authentication requirement for exploiting this vulnerability increases the attack surface, making it a prime target for opportunistic attackers. Even though no known exploits are currently active, the potential impact warrants immediate attention and remediation.

1. Upgrade Apache DolphinScheduler to version 3.0.2 or later immediately to apply the official fix that restricts management endpoint exposure. 2. For environments where upgrading is not feasible in the short term, apply the recommended workaround by setting the environment variable MANAGEMENT_ENDPOINTS_WEB_EXPOSURE_INCLUDE=health,metrics,prometheus to limit exposed endpoints. 3. Alternatively, modify the application.yaml configuration file to restrict management endpoints exposure as follows: management: endpoints: web: exposure: include: health,metrics,prometheus 4. Implement network-level access controls such as firewall rules or VPN requirements to restrict access to management endpoints only to trusted internal IP addresses or administrative users. 5. Monitor access logs for unusual or unauthorized requests to management endpoints to detect potential exploitation attempts. 6. Conduct a thorough audit of exposed systems to ensure no sensitive information has been leaked and rotate any potentially compromised credentials. 7. Educate DevOps and security teams about the importance of securing management interfaces and applying principle of least privilege to all operational endpoints. 8. Integrate vulnerability scanning and patch management processes to promptly identify and remediate similar issues in the future.