CVE-2024-9348 in Docker
Summary
by MITRE • 10/16/2024
Docker Desktop before v4.34.3 allows RCE via unsanitized GitHub source link in Build view.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/19/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-9348 represents a critical remote code execution flaw within Docker Desktop versions prior to 4.34.3. This security weakness specifically manifests in the Build view component where the application fails to properly sanitize user-provided input from GitHub source links. The flaw creates a pathway for malicious actors to inject arbitrary commands that can be executed within the context of the Docker Desktop application, potentially compromising the entire host system. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization mechanisms that should have prevented untrusted source code references from being processed without proper security checks.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits the trust model inherent in Docker Desktop's build process where users can specify GitHub repository locations to pull source code for container builds. When a user enters a GitHub URL in the build view, the application should validate that the source is legitimate and safe before proceeding with any automated operations. However, the flaw allows attackers to manipulate the URL structure or append malicious parameters that bypass these validation checks. This unsanitized input can then be processed by the underlying build system, potentially executing commands that were not intended by the legitimate user. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-20, which describes improper input validation, and specifically relates to CWE-78, which addresses OS command injection vulnerabilities. The attack vector demonstrates how insecure handling of external references can lead to complete system compromise.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it can enable attackers to gain full control over the host system where Docker Desktop is installed. An attacker could leverage this vulnerability to execute arbitrary commands with the privileges of the Docker Desktop process, potentially accessing sensitive data, modifying system configurations, or establishing persistence mechanisms. The attack requires minimal user interaction beyond navigating to the build view and entering a maliciously crafted GitHub link, making it particularly dangerous in environments where developers frequently interact with external code repositories. This vulnerability could be exploited in both development and production environments, potentially affecting organizations that rely on Docker Desktop for container development and testing activities. The flaw represents a significant concern for organizations following ATT&CK framework's T1059.001 technique for command and scripting interpreter, specifically shell scripting, which is directly enabled by this vulnerability.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2024-9348 primarily focus on immediate patching of Docker Desktop to version 4.34.3 or later where the sanitization issues have been addressed. Organizations should implement network-level controls to restrict access to external repositories and enforce strict policies around source code validation. Security teams should monitor for suspicious build activities and implement automated scanning of GitHub links before they are processed. Additional defensive measures include restricting Docker Desktop privileges, implementing application whitelisting, and conducting regular security assessments of development environments. The vulnerability highlights the importance of input sanitization in all components that process external data, particularly those with elevated privileges or system-level access. Organizations should also consider implementing security awareness training for developers to recognize potential malicious input patterns and understand the risks associated with external code integration. Regular updates to development tools and security frameworks remain crucial in defending against similar vulnerabilities that exploit trust relationships between applications and external sources.