CVE-2019-16097 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis
Learn about CVE-2019-16097 affecting Harbor versions 1.7.0 through 1.8.2, allowing non-admin users to create admin accounts. Find mitigation steps and upgrade to secure versions v1.7.6, v1.8.3, or v1.9.0.
Harbor vulnerability allowing non-admin users to create admin accounts.
Understanding CVE-2019-16097
What is CVE-2019-16097?
core/api/user.go in Harbor versions 1.7.0 through 1.8.2 allows non-admin users to create admin accounts via the POST /api/users API when configured with a database as the authentication backend.
The Impact of CVE-2019-16097
This vulnerability enables non-admin users to escalate privileges and create admin accounts, potentially compromising the system's security.
Technical Details of CVE-2019-16097
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability in Harbor versions 1.7.0 through 1.8.2 allows non-admin users to create admin accounts using the POST /api/users API.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Versions 1.7.0 through 1.8.2 of Harbor
Exploitation Mechanism
- Non-admin users exploiting the POST /api/users API
Mitigation and Prevention
Immediate Steps to Take
- Upgrade to fixed versions v1.7.6, v1.8.3, or v1.9.0
- Configure Harbor to use a non-DB authentication backend like LDAP
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update Harbor to the latest secure versions
- Implement strong authentication mechanisms
- Monitor user account creation and privileges
- Conduct security audits and assessments
Patching and Updates
- Apply the fix by upgrading to versions v1.7.6, v1.8.3, or v1.9.0