CVE-2024-22197 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

This CVE involves an authenticated (user role) remote command execution vulnerability in the

nginx-ui

container, allowing attackers to modify

nginx

settings, leading to potential security risks.

Understanding CVE-2024-22197

This vulnerability in the

nginx-ui

container poses a high severity risk with a CVSS v3.1 base score of 7.7. It allows for remote command execution by manipulating

nginx

settings, potentially leading to serious consequences if exploited.

What is CVE-2024-22197?

The

nginx-ui

container is an online statistics tool for monitoring server indicators such as CPU usage, memory usage, load average, and disk usage in real-time. The vulnerability lies in the exposure of certain

nginx

settings through the API, enabling attackers to execute remote commands by exploiting these settings. This could result in various security threats like Remote Code Execution, Privilege Escalation, and Information Disclosure.

The Impact of CVE-2024-22197

The impact of this CVE is significant, as it allows authenticated users to execute remote commands on the affected system, potentially leading to unauthorized access, data breaches, and system compromise. It is crucial to address this vulnerability promptly to prevent any security incidents.

Technical Details of CVE-2024-22197

This section delves deeper into the technical aspects of the CVE, including the vulnerability description, affected systems, and the exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from the exposure of critical

nginx

settings through the

nginx-ui

API, enabling authenticated users to manipulate these settings and execute remote commands, posing a severe security risk to the system.

Affected Systems and Versions

The

nginx-ui

container version < 2.0.0.beta.9 is impacted by this vulnerability. Systems using affected versions of

nginx-ui

are at risk of exploitation if proper mitigation measures are not implemented.

Exploitation Mechanism

By leveraging the exposed

nginx

settings in the

nginx-ui

API, attackers can craft malicious requests to modify these settings and execute arbitrary commands on the system. This allows for unauthorized remote command execution, potentially leading to system compromise.

Mitigation and Prevention

Mitigating CVE-2024-22197 is crucial to safeguard systems from potential exploitation and security breaches. Implementing immediate steps, adopting long-term security practices, and applying necessary patches and updates are essential preventive measures.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update to the patched version (2.0.0.beta.9) of

nginx-ui

to eliminate the vulnerability.
Restrict access to critical

nginx

settings and APIs to authorized personnel only.
Monitor and audit API requests to detect any unauthorized attempts at manipulating

nginx

settings.

Long-Term Security Practices

Conduct regular security assessments and penetration testing to identify and address vulnerabilities proactively.
Train personnel on secure coding practices and the importance of secure API management to prevent future security incidents.
Implement a robust access control mechanism and least privilege principle to limit user permissions effectively.

Patching and Updates

Ensure timely installation of security patches and updates for all software components, including

nginx-ui

, to address known vulnerabilities and enhance overall system security. Regularly monitor vendor advisories and security alerts for any emerging threats and necessary patches.