Docker has issued a security advisory for a critical vulnerability affecting certain versions of Docker Engine. This vulnerability, identified as CVE-2024-41110, has a CVSS score of 10, indicating critical severity. It allows attackers to bypass authorization plugins (AuthZ) under specific circumstances, potentially leading to unauthorized actions, including privilege escalation.
Vulnerability Details
- Vulnerability ID: CVE-2024-41110
- Vulnerability Type: Authorization Bypass
- Severity Level: Critical
- CVSS Score: 10
- Affected Software: Docker Engine versions 19.03.x and later, specifically those configured to use AuthZ plugins
Technical Analysis
The CVE-2024-41110 vulnerability enables attackers to bypass authorization plugins (AuthZ) under certain conditions. AuthZ plugins enforce granular access controls within the Docker Engine environment. However, this vulnerability allows attackers to craft API requests that circumvent these checks, potentially granting unauthorized permissions.
Affected Versions
- Docker Engine: Versions 19.03.x and later, configured to use AuthZ plugins
- Docker Desktop: Less impacted, but users are recommended to update to version 4.33 upon release for the patched Docker Engine
Potential Impact
While the likelihood of exploitation is low, the potential impact is significant, especially in production environments where Docker Engine is crucial for container orchestration and deployment. Unauthorized actions and privilege escalation could lead to system takeovers.
Mitigation
Recommended Actions:
- Update Docker Engine: Update to the latest patched version of Docker Engine immediately.
- Mitigation Measures: If an immediate update is not feasible, temporarily disable AuthZ plugins and restrict access to the Docker API.
- Update Docker Desktop: Update to Docker Desktop version 4.33 upon release.
Conclusion
CVE-2024-41110 is a critical authorization bypass vulnerability in Docker Engine, requiring immediate attention from Docker users. Despite a low likelihood of exploitation, the potential impact is severe. Docker users must update their systems and implement mitigation measures promptly to protect their environments from this significant threat.
