Security Assessment Tools for Docker Containers

Introduction

Docker has revolutionized software deployment by enabling the isolation of applications within containers. While this technology offers numerous benefits, such as keeping code out of production environments, it also presents new challenges in terms of security and forensics, especially in the aftermath of a ransomware or cyber-attack. On the surface, Docker forensics refers to the process of investigating Docker containers to uncover evidence and gain insights into potential security breaches or malicious activities. However, it is more complex than that.

The goal of this article is to explore the key concepts, challenges, and techniques involved in Docker forensics, highlighting its importance in modern-day digital investigations and some of the tools involved.

Understanding Docker Containers

Docker containers provide a lightweight, portable, and isolated environment for running applications. Each container encapsulates the application, its dependencies, and the underlying operating system, making it self-contained and easy to replicate. Containerization also allows developers to study how a piece of software, or a quality update, could affect the application that is currently in production. However, these characteristics also make containers an attractive target for attackers or a potential hiding place for bad actors planning malicious activities. Docker forensics involves understanding the internal workings of containers, their file systems, network configurations, and runtime artifacts to uncover valuable evidence during an investigation.  These forensic activities do have some uphill challenges that exist naturally within the docker ecosystem.

Challenges in Docker Forensics

Docker forensics presents unique challenges compared to traditional digital forensics. Firstly, the temporary nature of....