Arbitrary File Read Vulnerability in OpenRefine

openrefine Updated 02 Oct 2025

Summary

15/09/2023
N/A
Yes i
High
7.5

CVE-2023-41886: OpenRefine is a powerful free, open source tool for working with messy data. Affects openrefine across 2 version ranges.

< 2de1439f5be63d9d0e89bbacbd24fa28c8c3e29d < 3.6.2-2+deb12u2

Fixed in 3.6.2-2+deb12u2. How to fix ↓

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Background

OpenRefine is a powerful free, open-source tool designed for working with messy data. It allows users to clean, transform, and explore large datasets efficiently. OpenRefine supports various data formats and provides a user-friendly interface for data manipulation. However, prior to version 3.7.5, OpenRefine was susceptible to an arbitrary file read vulnerability, which could allow unauthorized users to access sensitive files on the server.

Vulnerability Detail

The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-41886 allows any unauthenticated user to read files on the server where OpenRefine is hosted. This issue arises from improper access controls, enabling attackers to exploit the system and potentially gain access to sensitive information stored on the server. The ramifications of this vulnerability can be severe, as it may lead to data breaches or unauthorized disclosure of confidential data.

How To Fix

Minimum fixed version

3.6.2-2+deb12u2

This is the first release that contains the fix.

sudo apt-get install --only-upgrade openrefine

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Workaround

As a temporary measure, users can restrict access to the OpenRefine server by implementing firewall rules or using a reverse proxy to limit access to trusted IP addresses until the upgrade can be performed.

Conclusion

The arbitrary file read vulnerability in OpenRefine (CVE-2023-41886) poses significant risks to data security. Users are strongly advised to upgrade to version 3.7.5 or later to mitigate these risks. Temporary workarounds can be implemented, but the best course of action is to ensure the application is updated to the latest version.

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FAQ

CVE-2023-41886 is an identifier for a vulnerability in OpenRefine that allows unauthorized users to read files on the server.

You can use the Vulert playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected by this vulnerability without needing to sign up.

The risks include unauthorized access to sensitive files, potential data breaches, and exposure of confidential information.

Yes, you can temporarily restrict access to the OpenRefine server using firewall rules or a reverse proxy.

The CVSS score for CVE-2023-41886 is 7.5, indicating a high severity level.

Related vulnerabilities

Recent vulnerabilities recorded for openrefine.

How To Fix

Minimum fixed version

3.6.2-2+deb12u2

This is the first release that contains the fix.

sudo apt-get install --only-upgrade openrefine

Tip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →

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