CVE-2025-7342

VM images built with Kubernetes Image Builder Nutanix or OVA providers use default credentials for Windows images if user did not override

Description

A security issue was discovered in the Kubernetes Image Builder where default credentials are enabled during the Windows image build process when using the Nutanix or VMware OVA providers. These credentials, which allow root access, are disabled at the conclusion of the build. Kubernetes clusters are only affected if their nodes use VM images created via the Image Builder project and the vulnerability was exploited during the build process, which requires an attacker to access the build VM and modify the image while the build is in progress.

Remediation

Solution:

  • Rebuild any affected images using a fixed version of Image Builder. Re-deploy the fixed images to any affected VMs.

Category

7.5
CVSS
Severity: High
CVSS 3.1 •
EPSS 0.04%
Affected: Kubernetes Image Builder
Published at:
Updated at:

References

Link Tags
https://groups.google.com/g/kubernetes-security-announce/c/tuEsLUQu_PA mailing list
https://github.com/kubernetes/kubernetes/issues/133115 issue tracking

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the severity of CVE-2025-7342?
CVE-2025-7342 has been scored as a high severity vulnerability.
How to fix CVE-2025-7342?
To fix CVE-2025-7342: Rebuild any affected images using a fixed version of Image Builder. Re-deploy the fixed images to any affected VMs.
Is CVE-2025-7342 being actively exploited in the wild?
As for now, there are no information to confirm that CVE-2025-7342 is being actively exploited. According to its EPSS score, there is a ~0% probability that this vulnerability will be exploited by malicious actors in the next 30 days.
What software or system is affected by CVE-2025-7342?
CVE-2025-7342 affects Kubernetes Image Builder.
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