CVE-2014-0047 in Docker
Summary
by MITRE
Docker before 1.5 allows local users to have unspecified impact via vectors involving unsafe /tmp usage.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/04/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-0047 affects Docker versions prior to 1.5 and represents a critical security flaw related to improper handling of temporary files in the /tmp directory. This issue stems from the container runtime's failure to properly secure temporary file operations, creating potential attack vectors for local users who can exploit the unsafe usage patterns. The vulnerability specifically targets the way Docker manages temporary directories during container execution and image building processes, where the system does not adequately validate or isolate temporary file operations that could be manipulated by unauthorized local users.
The technical flaw manifests through unsafe practices in how Docker handles temporary file creation and management within the /tmp filesystem. When Docker containers are executed, they often create temporary files and directories that are stored in the system's temporary directory space. In vulnerable versions, these temporary operations do not implement proper security controls such as secure file creation patterns, proper file permissions, or isolation mechanisms that would prevent local users from interfering with or accessing these temporary resources. This unsafe approach to temporary file handling can lead to various security consequences including privilege escalation, information disclosure, or denial of service conditions.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple local privilege escalation scenarios and can result in significant security compromise for systems running affected Docker versions. Local attackers who can manipulate temporary files in /tmp can potentially gain elevated privileges, access sensitive container data, or disrupt container operations. The unspecified impact mentioned in the CVE description suggests that the vulnerability could enable multiple attack vectors depending on the specific system configuration and the nature of the temporary files being manipulated. This makes the vulnerability particularly dangerous as it may be exploitable in various contexts without clear limitations on the potential damage.
Security practitioners should note that this vulnerability aligns with common weakness enumerations such as CWE-377, which addresses insecure temporary file handling, and CWE-276, which covers improper file permissions. The attack patterns associated with this vulnerability can be mapped to ATT&CK techniques including privilege escalation through file system manipulation and defense evasion via exploitation of container runtime weaknesses. Organizations running Docker environments prior to version 1.5 should implement immediate mitigations including upgrading to patched versions, implementing proper temporary file security controls, and monitoring for unauthorized access to temporary directories. Additionally, system administrators should consider implementing stricter file system permissions and access controls around /tmp directories to reduce the attack surface for such vulnerabilities. The remediation process should include comprehensive testing to ensure that the upgrade does not introduce compatibility issues while also implementing proper security monitoring to detect any potential exploitation attempts.