Horizon Alert
Summary of the vulnerability and why it matters
This advisory addresses a security vulnerability in the Snowflake Command Line Interface. The issue involves the improper handling of remote references, which could allow an attacker to trick the system into making unintended requests to internal network locations or executing remote SQL content within a user's session. This is a critical vulnerability, though successful exploitation requires specific conditions, including the user processing attacker-controlled content through a vulnerable command path.
- Issue: Unrestricted remote references in Snowflake CLI.
- Why remember: Potential for unintended internal network access.
- Executive takeaway: Confirm relevance and confirm any exposure.
Attack Path
How an attacker could exploit the issue
An attacker could trick a user into processing specially crafted SQL content through the Snowflake CLI. This could cause the user's environment to send requests to unintended network locations or execute remote SQL content, potentially leading to data compromise or unauthorized actions. The impact is limited by the user's session privileges and environment.
- Requires user to process attacker content.
- Uses !source/!load directives to reference remote URLs.
- Can lead to data exposure and remote code execution.
Live Threat
Current exploitation, exposure, and threat context
In supported environments, this vulnerability could allow an attacker to trick a user into executing malicious SQL commands by referencing remote URLs. This could lead to unintended outbound network requests from the victim's system and the execution of unauthorized SQL content within their Snowflake session, impacting system data and user data.
- Unintended outbound network requests.
- Victim processes attacker-controlled content.
- Unauthorized SQL execution in session.
Operational Fix
Recommended remediation, mitigation, and detection steps
The Snowflake CLI's improper handling of remote references necessitates action from application owners and platform teams. The primary step involves identifying all instances of the affected CLI, determining their exposure and criticality, and then coordinating remediation efforts.
- Application owners should own the remediation.
- Verify CLI usage and remote URL access.
- Plan for updates during maintenance windows.
