CVE-2019-14271 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A vulnerability exists in Docker versions prior to 19.03.1, which are using the GNU C Library. This flaw allows the injection of malicious code when the nsswitch facility loads a library within a chroot directory that includes the container's contents.

Understanding CVE-2019-14271

This CVE-2019-14271 vulnerability affects Docker versions before 19.03.1 that utilize the GNU C Library, potentially enabling the injection of malicious code.

What is CVE-2019-14271?

In Docker versions prior to 19.03.1, a vulnerability linked to the GNU C Library allows for code injection when a library is loaded within a chroot directory containing the container's data.

The Impact of CVE-2019-14271

The vulnerability could lead to the injection of malicious code into Docker containers, potentially compromising the security and integrity of the containerized applications.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-14271

This section provides detailed technical information about the CVE-2019-14271 vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

In Docker versions before 19.03.1 using the GNU C Library, code injection can occur when the nsswitch facility dynamically loads a library inside a chroot that contains the contents of the container.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected Systems: Docker versions prior to 19.03.1
Affected Software: Docker linked against the GNU C Library

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability allows for the injection of malicious code when a library is loaded within a chroot directory that includes the container's contents.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2019-14271 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Docker to version 19.03.1 or newer to mitigate the vulnerability.
Monitor for any unusual activities or unauthorized access to Docker containers.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement container security best practices to prevent code injection attacks.
Regularly audit and review the security configurations of Docker containers.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security updates and patches released by Docker to address vulnerabilities like CVE-2019-14271.