CVE-2021-31232 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

The Alertmanager in CNCF Cortex before version 1.8.1 is impacted by a local file disclosure vulnerability due to the use of

-experimental.alertmanager.enable-api

. This vulnerability allows attackers to exploit the HTTP basic auth

password_file

to send any file content via a webhook. Additionally, the alertmanager templates can be manipulated to send arbitrary file content.

Understanding CVE-2021-31232

This section provides insights into the nature and impact of CVE-2021-31232.

What is CVE-2021-31232?

The vulnerability in CNCF Cortex Alertmanager allows threat actors to disclose local files by exploiting certain configurations, potentially leading to unauthorized access to sensitive information and data leakage.

The Impact of CVE-2021-31232

The exploitation of this vulnerability could result in unauthorized disclosure of sensitive files or data stored on the affected system, posing a significant risk to confidentiality and integrity.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-31232

Explore the technical aspects of CVE-2021-31232 to understand the underlying vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The Alertmanager in CNCF Cortex before version 1.8.1 suffers from a local file disclosure flaw, enabling attackers to abuse the

-experimental.alertmanager.enable-api

feature to access and send arbitrary file content using webhooks.

Affected Systems and Versions

All versions of CNCF Cortex prior to 1.8.1 are affected by this vulnerability, exposing users to potential file disclosure risks.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can utilize the HTTP basic auth

password_file

and manipulate alertmanager templates to send malicious file content, exploiting the lax file loading mechanism in the application.

Mitigation and Prevention

Discover the steps to mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2021-31232 and prevent potential exploitation.

Immediate Steps to Take

Upgrade CNCF Cortex to version 1.8.1 or newer to address the vulnerability and enhance security posture.
Review and restrict access to sensitive files and directories to mitigate potential disclosure risks.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly monitor and audit file access and usage within CNCF Cortex to detect any suspicious activities.
Implement strong authentication mechanisms and access controls to prevent unauthorized access to critical files.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security updates and patches released by CNCF Cortex to promptly apply fixes and protect the system from known vulnerabilities.