Platform
python
Component
binderhub
Fixed in
0.2.1
0.2.0
CVE-2021-39159 is a critical Remote Code Execution (RCE) vulnerability discovered in BinderHub. An attacker providing maliciously crafted input can execute code within the BinderHub context, potentially leading to significant data breaches and system compromise. This vulnerability impacts BinderHub versions 0.1.0 and earlier, and a patch is available in version 0.2.0.
The impact of CVE-2021-39159 is severe. Successful exploitation allows an attacker to execute arbitrary code within the BinderHub environment. This could lead to the exfiltration of sensitive credentials, including JupyterHub API tokens, Kubernetes service account tokens, and Docker registry credentials. With these credentials, an attacker could manipulate images and user-created pods within the deployment. Depending on the underlying Kubernetes configuration, this could potentially escalate to host compromise, granting complete control over the system. The ability to manipulate images poses a significant supply chain risk, as malicious images could be deployed to unsuspecting users.
CVE-2021-39159 was publicly disclosed on August 30, 2021. While no active exploitation campaigns have been publicly confirmed, the vulnerability's critical severity and the potential for credential theft make it a high-priority target. The vulnerability is not currently listed on CISA KEV, but its severity warrants monitoring. Public proof-of-concept exploits are likely to emerge given the RCE nature of the vulnerability.
Exploit Status
EPSS
1.32% (80% percentile)
CVSS Vector
The primary mitigation for CVE-2021-39159 is to upgrade BinderHub to version 0.2.0 or later, which contains the fix. If upgrading immediately is not feasible, consider implementing temporary workarounds. Review and restrict access to the JupyterHub API. Implement strict Kubernetes Role-Based Access Control (RBAC) to limit the permissions of service accounts. Monitor BinderHub logs for suspicious activity, particularly related to image pulls and pod creation. After upgrading, confirm the fix by attempting to reproduce the vulnerability with a known malicious input and verifying that the code execution is prevented.
Update BinderHub to version 0.2.0-n653 or later. If you cannot update, disable the git repository provider by specifying `BinderHub.repo_providers` as a workaround.
Vulnerability analysis and critical alerts directly to your inbox.
CVE-2021-39159 is a critical Remote Code Execution vulnerability in BinderHub versions 0.1.0 and earlier. It allows attackers to execute code by providing malicious input, potentially compromising the entire system.
You are affected if you are running BinderHub version 0.1.0 or earlier. Upgrade to version 0.2.0 or later to mitigate the vulnerability.
The recommended fix is to upgrade BinderHub to version 0.2.0 or later. If immediate upgrade is not possible, implement temporary workarounds like restricting API access and strengthening Kubernetes RBAC.
While no active exploitation campaigns have been publicly confirmed, the vulnerability's critical severity makes it a high-priority target and monitoring is advised.
Refer to the BinderHub GitHub repository for updates and advisories: https://github.com/jupyterhub/binderhub
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