Learn about CVE-2021-33637, a high-severity vulnerability in iSulad allowing attackers to escape containers. Follow mitigation steps to secure your Linux systems.
A detailed analysis of CVE-2021-33637 highlighting its impact, technical details, and mitigation strategies.
Understanding CVE-2021-33637
CVE-2021-33637 involves the potential for a container to be exported to an image, allowing attackers to escape the container when they have control over it.
What is CVE-2021-33637?
When using the isula export command to export a container to an image under an attacker's control, it enables the attacker to break out of the container.
The Impact of CVE-2021-33637
This vulnerability, classified under CAPEC-234, allows attackers to hijack a privileged process, posing a significant risk to confidentiality, integrity, and availability.
Technical Details of CVE-2021-33637
The vulnerability is scored 8.4 (High) on the CVSS scale, indicating a low attack complexity and local exploit vector. The affected versions include iSulad up to 2.1.2 and are primarily found on Linux platforms.
Vulnerability Description
CVE-2021-33637, with CWE-665, arises due to improper initialization within iSulad, leading to the escape of containers controlled by malicious actors.
Affected Systems and Versions
iSulad versions less than or equal to 2.0.8-20210518.144540.git5288ed93, 2.0.18-10, and 2.1.2 are impacted by this vulnerability on the Linux platform.
Exploitation Mechanism
By utilizing the isula export command on a container managed by an attacker, the attacker can exploit this vulnerability to escape the container.
Mitigation and Prevention
To minimize the risk associated with CVE-2021-33637, immediate steps should be taken alongside long-term security practices, including timely patching and updates.
Immediate Steps to Take
Users should avoid exporting containers in environments where attackers have control to prevent the exploitation of this vulnerability.
Long-Term Security Practices
Implement strict container security measures, regularly monitor for unauthorized access, and conduct security audits to fortify system defenses.
Patching and Updates
Ensure prompt installation of patches provided by iSulad to address the CVE-2021-33637 vulnerability and enhance overall system security.