CVE-2020-8563 : Security Advisory and Response

In Kubernetes clusters using VSphere as a cloud provider, with a logging level set to 4 or above, VSphere cloud credentials will be leaked in the cloud controller manager's log. This affects versions prior to 1.19.3.

Understanding CVE-2020-8563

This CVE involves secret leaks in logs for the vSphere Provider kube-controller-manager.

What is CVE-2020-8563?

CVE-2020-8563 is a vulnerability in Kubernetes clusters utilizing VSphere as a cloud provider, where enabling verbose logging can lead to the exposure of VSphere cloud credentials in the cloud controller manager's log.

The Impact of CVE-2020-8563

The vulnerability has a CVSS base score of 4.7, indicating a medium severity issue. It can result in high confidentiality impact as VSphere cloud credentials are exposed.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-8563

This section provides more technical insights into the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allows for the leakage of VSphere cloud credentials in the cloud controller manager's log when the logging level is set to 4 or above.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Kubernetes
Vendor: Kubernetes
Versions Affected: < 1.19.3

Exploitation Mechanism

Attack Complexity: High
Attack Vector: Local
Privileges Required: Low
User Interaction: None
Scope: Unchanged

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2020-8563, follow these mitigation strategies.

Immediate Steps to Take

Avoid enabling verbose logging in production (log level >= 4)
Limit access to logs to prevent unauthorized exposure of credentials

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly review and update logging configurations to ensure sensitive information is not exposed
Implement access controls to restrict log access to authorized personnel only

Patching and Updates

Apply patches or updates provided by Kubernetes to fix the vulnerability