CVE-2023-0633 in Docker
Summary
by MITRE • 09/25/2023
In Docker Desktop on Windows before 4.12.0 an argument injection to installer may result in local privilege escalation (LPE).This issue affects Docker Desktop: before 4.12.0.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/16/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-0633 represents a critical local privilege escalation flaw within Docker Desktop for Windows systems. This security issue stems from improper input validation during the installer execution process, creating a pathway for malicious actors to escalate their privileges from standard user level to administrative rights. The vulnerability specifically impacts Docker Desktop versions prior to 4.12.0, making all earlier installations susceptible to exploitation. The flaw manifests when the installer processes command-line arguments without adequate sanitization, allowing attackers to inject malicious parameters that can manipulate the installation process.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-77 and CWE-78 categories, which encompass argument injection and command injection flaws respectively. These weaknesses enable attackers to execute arbitrary code within the context of the installer process, potentially gaining elevated privileges. The vulnerability operates through argument injection techniques where untrusted input is directly incorporated into command execution without proper validation or sanitization. This type of flaw is particularly dangerous in desktop environments where users may have administrative privileges or where the installer process runs with elevated permissions.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability poses significant risks to organizations relying on Docker Desktop for Windows development and deployment activities. Attackers could exploit this weakness by crafting malicious installer arguments that, when processed, would execute unintended commands with elevated privileges. The impact extends beyond individual system compromise, potentially enabling attackers to establish persistent access, install malware, or manipulate system configurations. The vulnerability's exploitation requires minimal prerequisites, as it leverages the inherent trust placed in the installer process during Docker Desktop installation or update procedures.
The mitigation strategy for CVE-2023-0633 centers on upgrading to Docker Desktop version 4.12.0 or later, which incorporates proper input validation and sanitization measures for installer arguments. Organizations should also implement comprehensive patch management protocols to ensure all Docker Desktop installations remain current with security updates. Additional protective measures include restricting user privileges where possible, monitoring installer execution logs for suspicious argument patterns, and implementing application control policies to prevent unauthorized installer modifications. Security teams should conduct regular vulnerability assessments focusing on installation and update processes, particularly for privileged applications like Docker Desktop that handle system-level operations. The remediation approach aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068 which addresses local privilege escalation through application misconfiguration, emphasizing the importance of proper input validation and privilege separation in system security design.