CVE-2019-15789 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

A privilege escalation vulnerability in MicroK8s allows a user with limited privileges and local access to gain root access to the host by creating a privileged container. This issue has been resolved in MicroK8s version 1.15.3.

Understanding CVE-2019-15789

MicroK8s Privilege Escalation Vulnerability

What is CVE-2019-15789?

The CVE-2019-15789 vulnerability in MicroK8s enables a user with restricted privileges and local access to escalate their privileges and gain root access to the host by creating a privileged container.

The Impact of CVE-2019-15789

CVSS Base Score: 8.8 (High)
Attack Vector: Local
Attack Complexity: Low
Privileges Required: Low
Confidentiality Impact: High
Integrity Impact: High
Availability Impact: High
Scope: Changed
User Interaction: None

Technical Details of CVE-2019-15789

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allows a user with limited privileges and local access to escalate their privileges and gain root access to the host by creating a privileged container in MicroK8s.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected Product: MicroK8s
Vendor: Canonical
Affected Version: 1.15 (custom version) less than 1.15.3

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by a user with limited privileges and local access to the system by creating a privileged container in MicroK8s.

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

Upgrade MicroK8s to version 1.15.3 or higher to mitigate the vulnerability.
Monitor and restrict user access to prevent unauthorized privilege escalation.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement the principle of least privilege to restrict user access rights.
Regularly update and patch software to address security vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches and updates provided by Canonical for MicroK8s to ensure system security.