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Kubernetes API calls indicating access to Kubernetes secret

ID:k8s_secret_access
Data type:Kubernetes
Severity:
Informational
-
Medium
MITRE ATT&CK:TA0006:T1552.007

Description

AlphaSOC detected unexpected access to a Kubernetes Secret. A Secret is an object that contains sensitive data such as passwords, tokens, or keys. This finding indicates that a Secret was accessed in a pattern deviating from expected access parameters, which may suggest unauthorized access attempts or potential data exfiltration.

Impact

Access to Kubernetes Secrets enables threat actors to compromise applications, laterally move through the cluster, and access protected resources. Exposed Secrets can lead to data breaches, service disruptions, and potential infrastructure compromise.

Severity

SeverityCondition
Informational
Unexpected action, ASN, user agent, or namespace
Low
Two unexpected properties at the same time
Medium
Three unexpected properties at the same time

Investigation and Remediation

Review Kubernetes audit logs to identify the service account and accessed Secrets. Analyze pod and container configurations to confirm legitimate secret mounting and access patterns. If unauthorized access is confirmed, rotate compromised Secrets, update RBAC policies, and investigate potential compromise of accessing pods or service accounts.