CVE-2022-31647 in Docker
Summary
by MITRE • 04/27/2023
Docker Desktop before 4.6.0 on Windows allows attackers to delete any file through the hyperv/destroy dockerBackendV2 API via a symlink in the DataFolder parameter, a different vulnerability than CVE-2022-26659.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/31/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-31647 represents a critical file deletion flaw in Docker Desktop versions prior to 4.6.0 on Windows operating systems. This vulnerability specifically affects the hyperv/destroy dockerBackendV2 API endpoint which is designed to handle virtual machine destruction operations within the Docker Desktop environment. The flaw manifests when the DataFolder parameter contains a symbolic link that points to sensitive system directories or files outside the intended scope of the Docker environment. Attackers can exploit this weakness by crafting malicious API requests that leverage the symlink functionality to traverse file system boundaries and delete arbitrary files on the host system. The vulnerability operates at the intersection of improper input validation and inadequate path resolution mechanisms within the Docker Desktop backend services.
This security flaw falls under the category of path traversal and privilege escalation vulnerabilities, with direct implications for the principle of least privilege and secure file system access controls. The technical implementation of the vulnerability stems from insufficient validation of the DataFolder parameter in the dockerBackendV2 API endpoint, which fails to properly resolve or sanitize symbolic links before processing file operations. The vulnerability is classified as a path traversal attack pattern that aligns with CWE-22 - Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory. The attack vector specifically targets the Windows-specific hyperv backend implementation where symbolic link resolution is not adequately constrained, allowing attackers to bypass intended access controls and execute destructive operations on arbitrary files.
The operational impact of CVE-2022-31647 extends beyond simple file deletion to encompass potential system compromise and data loss scenarios. An attacker who gains access to the Docker Desktop API could leverage this vulnerability to delete critical system files, configuration data, or user documents stored on the host system. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates within the context of a privileged application running with elevated permissions, potentially enabling attackers to escalate privileges or disrupt system operations. This weakness can be exploited by malicious actors with network access to the Docker Desktop API endpoint, making it a significant concern for enterprise environments where Docker Desktop may be installed on development workstations or servers. The impact is further amplified when considering that Docker Desktop typically runs with administrative privileges on Windows systems, providing attackers with extensive access to the underlying file system.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patching of Docker Desktop installations to version 4.6.0 or later, which implements proper symlink validation and path resolution mechanisms. Organizations should also implement network segmentation to restrict access to Docker Desktop API endpoints, particularly in production environments where such exposure is unnecessary. The implementation of proper API access controls and authentication mechanisms can help reduce the attack surface, while regular security audits of Docker Desktop configurations should be conducted to identify potential misconfigurations. System administrators should monitor for unauthorized access attempts to the dockerBackendV2 API and implement logging controls to track file system operations that may indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and secure coding practices, particularly when handling file system operations in privileged applications, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1059.001 - Command and Scripting Interpreter and T1566.001 - Phishing. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing container security solutions that can monitor and detect anomalous file system behavior patterns that may indicate exploitation of similar vulnerabilities.