CVE-2020-1701 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A flaw was found in the KubeVirt main virt-handler versions before 0.26.0 regarding the access permissions of virt-handler. An attacker with access to create VMs could attach any secret within their namespace, allowing them to read the contents of that secret.

Understanding CVE-2020-1701

This CVE involves a vulnerability in the virt-handler component of KubeVirt that allows unauthorized access to secrets within the namespace.

What is CVE-2020-1701?

CVE-2020-1701 is a security flaw in KubeVirt's virt-handler versions prior to 0.26.0, enabling attackers to read secret contents by exploiting inadequate access permissions.

The Impact of CVE-2020-1701

The vulnerability in virt-handler could lead to unauthorized access to sensitive information stored as secrets, compromising the confidentiality and integrity of the affected systems.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-1701

This section provides detailed technical information about the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The flaw allows attackers to read any secret within their namespace by creating VMs.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: virt-handler
Versions Affected: kubevirt 0.26.0
Vendor: Red Hat (n/a)

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers with VM creation access can attach and read secrets within their namespace.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protect systems from CVE-2020-1701 through immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update KubeVirt to version 0.26.0 or later to mitigate the vulnerability.
Review and restrict access permissions to secrets and namespaces.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement the principle of least privilege for access control.
Regularly monitor and audit access to secrets within namespaces.

Patching and Updates

Ensure timely application of security patches and updates provided by KubeVirt to address CVE-2020-1701.