CVE-2017-2292 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis
Learn about CVE-2017-2292, a critical vulnerability affecting MCollective, Puppet, and Puppet Enterprise, allowing remote code execution via YAML deserialization. Find mitigation steps and preventive measures here.
CVE-2017-2292 was published on May 11, 2017, and affects MCollective, Puppet, and Puppet Enterprise. The vulnerability allows for remote code execution via YAML deserialization, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution on the server.
Understanding CVE-2017-2292
Before version 2.10.4, MCollective versions did not invoke safe_load when deserializing YAML from agents, creating a security risk. The issue has been addressed by recommending the use of YAML.safe_load for processing input.
What is CVE-2017-2292?
CVE-2017-2292 is a vulnerability in MCollective that could allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code on the server by exploiting insecure YAML deserialization.
The Impact of CVE-2017-2292
The vulnerability poses a significant risk of remote code execution, potentially compromising the security and integrity of the affected systems.
Technical Details of CVE-2017-2292
Versions of MCollective prior to 2.10.4 deserialized YAML from agents without invoking safe_load, enabling the execution of arbitrary code on the server.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability in CVE-2017-2292 arises from the lack of safe_load invocation during YAML deserialization, allowing for potential remote code execution.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Products: MCollective, Puppet, Puppet Enterprise
- Versions: Puppet Enterprise prior to 2016.4.5, Puppet Enterprise 2016.5.x, Puppet Enterprise 2017.1.x, Puppet Agent prior to 1.10.1
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability can be exploited by manipulating YAML deserialization to execute arbitrary code on the server, posing a severe security risk.
Mitigation and Prevention
It is crucial to take immediate steps to address and prevent the exploitation of CVE-2017-2292.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update to the patched versions of MCollective and Puppet Enterprise to mitigate the vulnerability.
- Implement proper input validation and secure coding practices to prevent code injection attacks.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update and patch software to address known vulnerabilities and enhance security measures.
- Conduct security audits and assessments to identify and remediate potential security weaknesses.
Patching and Updates
- Apply the recommended patches provided by Puppet to secure the affected systems and prevent exploitation of the vulnerability.