CVE-2026-48828: Apache Airflow: Bulk JSON Variables bypass should_hide_value_for_key - redact() called without the key
The Bulk Variables API in Apache Airflow called the redactor without passing the variable's key, so the key-based shouldhidevalueforkey check (which triggers on secret-suffixed key names like password / token / secret) could not fire for JSON-decodable variable values. An authenticated UI/API user with bulk Variable read permission could retrieve plaintext values from JSON variables whose key would otherwise trigger redaction. Affects deployments that store sensitive values in JSON-typed Airflow Variables under secret-suffixed key names. Users are advised to upgrade to apache-airflow 3.3.0 or later (the fix landed on main after 3.2.2; no 3.2.x backport).
Affected Software
Remediation
Recommended actions to resolve this vulnerability, in priority order.
- Upgrade
Upgrade
apache-airflowto a version that resolves this vulnerability.Fixed in 3.3.0 - Compensating control
Limit access to the Apache Airflow Bulk Variables API/UI (bulk Variable read permission) to trusted authenticated users only, since authenticated users with bulk Variable read permission could retrieve plaintext values from JSON Airflow Variables.
Event History
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the severity of CVE-2026-48828?
The severity of CVE-2026-48828 is medium with a CVSS score of 6.5.
How do I fix CVE-2026-48828?
To fix CVE-2026-48828, ensure that the redactor in the Bulk Variables API is called with the appropriate key for sensitive values.
What type of vulnerability is CVE-2026-48828?
CVE-2026-48828 is classified as an information leak vulnerability.
What software is affected by CVE-2026-48828?
CVE-2026-48828 affects Apache Airflow.
What is the impact of CVE-2026-48828?
The impact of CVE-2026-48828 is the potential exposure of sensitive information due to improper handling of variable keys in the API.