CVE-2024-5652 in Docker
Summary
by MITRE • 07/09/2024
In Docker Desktop on Windows before v4.31.0 allows a user in the docker-users group to cause a Windows Denial-of-Service through the exec-path Docker daemon config option in Windows containers mode.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/12/2024
This vulnerability exists in Docker Desktop for Windows versions prior to 4.31.0 and represents a significant denial-of-service risk within containerized environments. The flaw specifically targets the exec-path Docker daemon configuration option when operating in Windows containers mode, creating a pathway for authenticated users within the docker-users group to disrupt system operations. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization mechanisms within the Docker daemon's configuration handling process, particularly when processing the exec-path parameter in Windows container contexts.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits the way Docker Desktop handles configuration parameters during container execution processes. When a user with appropriate group membership manipulates the exec-path configuration option, the Docker daemon fails to properly validate or restrict the input parameters, leading to a condition where maliciously crafted paths can trigger system resource exhaustion or process termination. This behavior manifests as a denial-of-service condition that affects the entire Docker Desktop environment, potentially disrupting all container operations and services running within that context.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple service disruption to encompass broader system stability concerns for organizations relying on Docker Desktop for Windows development and testing environments. Attackers with access to the docker-users group can effectively render Docker Desktop unusable for legitimate users, creating operational downtime that may affect development workflows, testing procedures, and deployment processes. The vulnerability particularly affects environments where Docker Desktop is used for local development and where multiple users share the same system with varying privilege levels.
This vulnerability aligns with CWE-20, "Improper Input Validation," and demonstrates characteristics consistent with ATT&CK technique T1499.001, "Network Denial of Service," as it enables an attacker to disrupt system services through configuration manipulation. The attack surface is limited to systems where Docker Desktop is installed and where users have been granted membership in the docker-users group, making it particularly concerning for development environments where such group memberships are common. Organizations should consider implementing additional access controls and monitoring mechanisms to detect unauthorized configuration changes that could lead to this type of denial-of-service condition.
Mitigation strategies should focus on immediate patching to Docker Desktop version 4.31.0 or later, which includes proper input validation for the exec-path configuration option. System administrators should also implement monitoring for unauthorized configuration changes and consider restricting group membership for the docker-users group to minimize potential attack vectors. Additional defensive measures include implementing proper access controls and privilege separation to ensure that only authorized personnel can modify critical Docker daemon configurations, thereby reducing the likelihood of successful exploitation of this vulnerability.