CVE-2025-6587 is a vulnerability classified under CWE-532, which involves the insertion of sensitive information into log files. In Docker Desktop versions prior to 4.43.0, when users utilize shell auto-completion features, system environment variables are inadvertently recorded in diagnostic log files. These environment variables often contain sensitive data such as API keys, passwords, tokens, or other credentials. Because diagnostic logs are typically accessible to users with certain privileges, a malicious actor who gains read access to these logs can extract these secrets. This can lead to unauthorized access to other systems or services that rely on these credentials. The vulnerability requires local or limited privilege access (AV:L - local attack vector) and low attack complexity (AC:L), with privileges required (PR:L) but no user interaction (UI:N). The scope is high (SC:H) and the impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability is also high (SI:H, CI:H, AI:H). Docker addressed this vulnerability starting with version 4.43.0 by ceasing the logging of system environment variables in diagnostic logs. No public exploits have been reported to date, but the risk remains significant due to the sensitivity of the leaked information.

The primary impact of CVE-2025-6587 is the potential exposure of sensitive credentials and secrets stored in environment variables. If an attacker obtains these secrets, they can leverage them to gain unauthorized access to cloud services, internal APIs, databases, or other critical infrastructure components. This can lead to data breaches, privilege escalation, lateral movement within networks, and disruption of services. Organizations relying heavily on Docker Desktop for development or operational workflows may inadvertently expose secrets if diagnostic logs are not properly secured. The vulnerability also undermines trust in the security hygiene of containerized environments and could lead to compliance violations if sensitive data is leaked. Since exploitation requires access to logs, the risk is higher in environments where multiple users share systems or where log files are not adequately protected. The medium CVSS score reflects the balance between the sensitivity of leaked data and the requirement for some level of access to the system.

To mitigate CVE-2025-6587, organizations should immediately upgrade Docker Desktop to version 4.43.0 or later, where the logging of environment variables in diagnostic logs has been disabled. Additionally, restrict access to diagnostic logs to only trusted administrators and users with a legitimate need, using strict file permissions and access controls. Implement monitoring and alerting for unusual access patterns to log files. Review and rotate any secrets or credentials that may have been exposed through logs prior to patching. Encourage developers and operators to avoid placing highly sensitive information in environment variables when possible, or use secret management tools that do not expose secrets in environment variables. Finally, audit and sanitize logs regularly to ensure no sensitive data is inadvertently recorded.