CVE-2018-20699 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies
Learn about CVE-2018-20699, a vulnerability in Docker Engine before version 18.09 that allows attackers to create a denial of service attack by consuming excessive memory. Find out how to mitigate and prevent this vulnerability.
Docker Engine before version 18.09 has a vulnerability that can lead to a denial of service attack by consuming excessive memory. Attackers can exploit this issue by providing a large integer in specific parameters.
Understanding CVE-2018-20699
This CVE involves a vulnerability in Docker Engine that allows attackers to disrupt service availability by causing memory consumption to spike.
What is CVE-2018-20699?
Prior to version 18.09, Docker Engine is susceptible to a denial of service attack triggered by a memory consumption flaw. By inputting a large integer in certain parameters, attackers can exploit this vulnerability.
The Impact of CVE-2018-20699
The vulnerability in Docker Engine can be exploited to create a denial of service attack, specifically by overwhelming the dockerd process with excessive memory usage.
Technical Details of CVE-2018-20699
This section delves into the technical aspects of the CVE.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability in Docker Engine allows attackers to execute a denial of service attack by causing a spike in memory consumption within the dockerd process.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Affected Version: Docker Engine before 18.09
Exploitation Mechanism
Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by providing a large integer value in either the --cpuset-mems or --cpuset-cpus parameter, leading to excessive memory consumption.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting systems from CVE-2018-20699 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Upgrade Docker Engine to version 18.09 or newer to mitigate the vulnerability.
- Monitor memory usage to detect any abnormal spikes that could indicate an attack.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update Docker Engine to the latest versions to patch known vulnerabilities.
- Implement access controls and restrictions to limit the impact of potential attacks.
- Conduct security audits and assessments to identify and address any security gaps.
- Educate users and administrators on secure Docker usage practices.
Patching and Updates
- Stay informed about security advisories and patches released by Docker to address vulnerabilities like CVE-2018-20699.