Use of Dangerous Functionality in Kubernetes

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Kubernetes has many features that can be used and deployed in many ways. However, this can also result in a complex attack surface.

Untrusted Repositories

Malicious Images

Untrusted repositories may contain malicious Docker images. These images can be designed as an entry point for attackers into your Kubernetes environment. They could have hidden malware or exploits that, when run, compromise the whole system’s security. For instance, they can launch DDoS attacks, steal sensitive information, or perform cryptojacking activities.

Inadequate Image Scanning

Images in untrusted repositories might have yet to undergo a thorough security scan to find vulnerabilities. Open-source vulnerability scanning solutions are often employed to detect known image vulnerabilities. However, these solutions are not foolproof and sometimes fail to identify zero-day vulnerabilities. An attacker can take advantage of these vulnerabilities to execute malicious actions.

Mitigating the Risk

You can mitigate the risks of untrusted repositories by using only trusted registries and ensuring all Docker images are verified and scanned for vulnerabilities.