CVE-2024-7631 is a path traversal vulnerability identified in the OpenShift Console, specifically in the endpoint /locales/resources.json, which serves plugin resources in multiple languages. The vulnerability arises from unsafe construction of file paths using the 'lng' and 'ns' parameters within the pkg/plugins/handlers unsafely.go source code at line 112. Because these parameters are not properly sanitized, an authenticated user can manipulate them with directory traversal sequences such as '../' to access arbitrary JSON files residing anywhere on the console's pod filesystem. This flaw does not require user interaction but does require authentication, limiting its exploitation scope to authorized users. The vulnerability impacts confidentiality by potentially exposing sensitive configuration or localization files but does not affect data integrity or system availability. The CVSS 3.1 base score is 4.3 (medium severity), reflecting the network attack vector, low complexity, and limited impact. No public exploits or patches have been reported yet, but the vulnerability is publicly disclosed and tracked by Red Hat and CISA. The flaw is significant in environments where OpenShift Console is deployed, especially in multi-tenant or sensitive cloud infrastructure settings, as it could lead to unauthorized information disclosure within the pod environment.

For European organizations, this vulnerability could lead to unauthorized disclosure of sensitive JSON files within OpenShift Console pods, potentially exposing configuration details, localization data, or other internal information. While the impact is limited to confidentiality and does not affect integrity or availability, leaked information could aid attackers in further reconnaissance or targeted attacks. Organizations relying on OpenShift for container orchestration and cloud-native applications, especially those in regulated industries such as finance, healthcare, or critical infrastructure, may face compliance and data privacy risks. The requirement for authentication reduces the risk from external attackers but insider threats or compromised credentials could be leveraged to exploit this flaw. Additionally, the exposure of internal files could undermine trust in cloud deployments and complicate incident response efforts.

European organizations should implement strict input validation and sanitization on the 'lng' and 'ns' parameters to prevent directory traversal sequences from being processed. Until official patches are released by the vendor, administrators should consider restricting access to the OpenShift Console to trusted users only and monitor access logs for suspicious parameter usage patterns. Employing runtime application self-protection (RASP) or web application firewalls (WAF) with custom rules to detect and block traversal attempts can provide interim protection. Regularly update OpenShift Console components as patches become available. Additionally, conduct audits of pod file permissions to minimize sensitive file exposure and enforce the principle of least privilege for users with console access. Educate users about the risks of credential compromise and enforce strong authentication mechanisms such as multi-factor authentication (MFA).