Discover the impact of CVE-2022-2385, a critical vulnerability in aws-iam-authenticator allowing IAM identity privilege escalation. Learn about mitigation steps and best security practices.
A security issue was discovered in aws-iam-authenticator where an allow-listed IAM identity may be able to modify their username and escalate privileges.
Understanding CVE-2022-2385
This CVE pertains to a vulnerability in the aws-iam-authenticator under Kubernetes that could allow an IAM identity to modify their username, potentially leading to privilege escalation.
What is CVE-2022-2385?
The CVE-2022-2385 vulnerability involves a security issue in aws-iam-authenticator that permits a whitelisted IAM identity to change their username and potentially elevate their permissions.
The Impact of CVE-2022-2385
The impact of CVE-2022-2385 is rated as critical with a CVSS Base Score of 8.1 out of 10, indicating a high severity level. The confidentiality, integrity, and privileges of affected systems are at risk.
Technical Details of CVE-2022-2385
The technical details of CVE-2022-2385 include vulnerability description, affected systems and versions, and the exploitation mechanism.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability allows an allow-listed IAM identity to manipulate their username and potentially escalate their privileges within the system.
Affected Systems and Versions
The vulnerability affects versions of aws-iam-authenticator prior to v0.5.9, with specific versions like v0.5.2 being confirmed as impacted.
Exploitation Mechanism
By taking advantage of the flaw in aws-iam-authenticator, an attacker with an allow-listed IAM identity can modify their username to gain unauthorized access and privileges.
Mitigation and Prevention
To address CVE-2022-2385, immediate steps, long-term security practices, and the importance of patching and updates are crucial.
Immediate Steps to Take
Prior to upgrading, users can mitigate this vulnerability by refraining from using the {{AccessKeyID}} template value to construct usernames.
Long-Term Security Practices
Implement strict IAM policies and monitor username modifications closely to prevent unauthorized escalation of privileges.
Patching and Updates
Ensure that aws-iam-authenticator is updated to versions beyond v0.5.9 to mitigate the vulnerability and enhance system security.