CVE-2022-31079 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

KubeEdge Cloud Stream and Edge Stream DoS from large stream message

Understanding CVE-2022-31079

This CVE pertains to KubeEdge, an open-source system that extends native containerized application orchestration capabilities to Edge hosts. The vulnerability allows attackers to conduct a Denial of Service (DoS) attack by sending a large message to exhaust memory.

What is CVE-2022-31079?

KubeEdge versions 1.11.0, 1.10.0 to 1.10.2, and below 1.9.4 are affected by a vulnerability where the Cloud Stream server and the Edge Stream server read large messages into memory without size limits, enabling a DoS attack.

The Impact of CVE-2022-31079

The vulnerability poses a Medium severity threat with a CVSS base score of 4.4. It requires high privileges to exploit and can result in a denial of service for the CloudCore and EdgeCore components.

Technical Details of CVE-2022-31079

Vulnerability Description

The Cloud Stream server and the Edge Stream server in KubeEdge versions are susceptible to a DoS attack when handling large messages due to memory exhaustion.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected versions include KubeEdge 1.11.0, 1.10.0 to 1.10.2, and versions below 1.9.4.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by sending large messages to exhaust memory, causing a denial of service for CloudCore and EdgeCore.

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

To mitigate the risk, users should upgrade to Kubeedge versions 1.11.1, 1.10.2, or 1.9.4. As a workaround, it is advised to disable the

cloudStream

and

edgeStream

modules in the respective config files.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implementing secure coding practices, regularly updating software, and monitoring memory usage can help prevent similar DoS attacks.

Patching and Updates

Ensure timely installation of patches and updates provided by KubeEdge to address and prevent vulnerabilities.