CVE-2023-45821 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A vulnerability known as 'Incorrect Docker Hub registry check in Artifact Hub' has been identified in the Artifact Hub web-based application. This vulnerability could allow an attacker to hijack Docker credentials due to an incorrect domain validation check.

Understanding CVE-2023-45821

This section will provide an overview of CVE-2023-45821, its impact, technical details, and mitigation strategies.

What is CVE-2023-45821?

CVE-2023-45821 refers to a security flaw in the Artifact Hub application related to improper validation of Docker registry domains. This flaw could potentially lead to the hijacking of Docker credentials.

The Impact of CVE-2023-45821

The vulnerability in Artifact Hub could be exploited by attackers to gain unauthorized access to Docker credentials, potentially compromising the security and integrity of the affected systems.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-45821

In this section, the specific technical aspects of CVE-2023-45821 will be discussed.

Vulnerability Description

During a security audit of Artifact Hub's code base, a security researcher discovered a bug in the

registryIsDockerHub

function, which incorrectly validated Docker registry domains. This flaw could enable attackers to hijack Docker credentials.

Affected Systems and Versions

The vulnerability affects Artifact Hub versions prior to 1.16.0. Users using affected versions are at risk of credential hijacking and unauthorized access to Docker content.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers could exploit this vulnerability by purchasing a domain ending with

docker.io

, deploying a fake OCI registry on it, and hijacking Docker credentials used by Artifact Hub.

Mitigation and Prevention

This section outlines the steps users and system administrators can take to mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2023-45821.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users are strongly advised to upgrade to Artifact Hub version 1.16.0 or newer, where the vulnerability has been addressed. It is crucial to ensure all systems are running the patched version to prevent potential exploitation.

Long-Term Security Practices

To enhance security posture, organizations should implement secure coding practices, conduct regular security audits, and stay informed about security updates for all software components used in their environments.

Patching and Updates

Regularly applying software patches and updates is essential to address known vulnerabilities and protect systems from potential security threats.