CVE-2024-12582 is an authentication bypass vulnerability identified in the skupper console, a tool designed to provide a read-only interface displaying cluster network information, traffic details, and metrics for applications deployed across hybrid multi-cloud environments. The vulnerability stems from the default authentication mechanism, which automatically generates a random password for the 'admin' user and stores it insecurely in plaintext within Kubernetes secrets or podman volume files. This insecure storage allows an attacker with low-level privileges to retrieve the admin password or manipulate the authentication process. Exploiting this flaw enables the attacker to read any file accessible to the user within the container filesystem, thereby breaching data confidentiality. Furthermore, the attacker can force the console to read extremely large files into memory, causing resource exhaustion that results in denial of service (DoS). The vulnerability requires network access and low privileges but does not require user interaction, increasing its exploitability. The CVSS 3.1 base score is 7.1 (high), reflecting the significant confidentiality impact and high availability impact due to DoS, combined with low attack complexity and no user interaction. No known exploits are currently reported in the wild, but the potential for exploitation exists given the default insecure configuration and the nature of the vulnerability.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk to the confidentiality and availability of sensitive data and services managed via the skupper console. The ability to read arbitrary files within container filesystems can lead to exposure of sensitive configuration files, credentials, or proprietary data, potentially facilitating further attacks or data breaches. The denial of service aspect can disrupt monitoring and network management operations critical for maintaining hybrid multi-cloud environments, impacting business continuity. Organizations relying on skupper for network observability in regulated industries such as finance, healthcare, or critical infrastructure may face compliance violations and reputational damage if exploited. The ease of exploitation due to low privilege requirements and no need for user interaction increases the likelihood of targeted attacks, especially in environments with default authentication settings. Given the growing adoption of Kubernetes and multi-cloud strategies in Europe, the threat surface is considerable.

To mitigate CVE-2024-12582, European organizations should immediately avoid using the default authentication method in skupper console. Instead, implement stronger authentication mechanisms, such as integrating with external identity providers or using secure password management practices. Secure storage of credentials must be enforced by encrypting Kubernetes secrets and avoiding plaintext storage in podman volumes. Regularly audit and rotate credentials associated with the skupper console. Implement strict network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure of the skupper console to trusted networks and users only. Monitor container resource usage and set limits to detect and prevent resource exhaustion attacks. Apply any available patches or updates from the skupper project or related vendors promptly once released. Additionally, conduct security assessments and penetration testing focusing on container and Kubernetes security configurations to identify and remediate similar weaknesses.