CVE-2017-5200 : What You Need to Know
Learn about CVE-2017-5200 affecting SaltStack Salt versions prior to 2015.8.13, 2016.3.x before 2016.3.5, and 2016.11.x before 2016.11.2, enabling arbitrary command execution on the salt-master.
SaltStack Salt versions prior to 2015.8.13, 2016.3.x before 2016.3.5, and 2016.11.x before 2016.11.2 have a vulnerability that enables arbitrary command execution on the salt-master using Salt's ssh_client.
Understanding CVE-2017-5200
Salt-api in SaltStack Salt before 2015.8.13, 2016.3.x before 2016.3.5, and 2016.11.x before 2016.11.2 allows arbitrary command execution on a salt-master via Salt's ssh_client.
What is CVE-2017-5200?
SaltStack Salt versions prior to specific releases have a vulnerability that can be exploited to execute arbitrary commands on the salt-master through Salt's ssh_client.
The Impact of CVE-2017-5200
This vulnerability allows attackers to execute arbitrary commands on the salt-master, potentially leading to unauthorized access, data breaches, and system compromise.
Technical Details of CVE-2017-5200
SaltStack Salt versions prior to specific releases are susceptible to arbitrary command execution.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability in SaltStack Salt allows attackers to execute arbitrary commands on the salt-master using Salt's ssh_client.
Affected Systems and Versions
- SaltStack Salt versions before 2015.8.13
- SaltStack Salt 2016.3.x before 2016.3.5
- SaltStack Salt 2016.11.x before 2016.11.2
Exploitation Mechanism
Attackers can exploit this vulnerability to execute unauthorized commands on the salt-master by leveraging Salt's ssh_client.
Mitigation and Prevention
It is crucial to take immediate steps to address and prevent exploitation of this vulnerability.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update SaltStack Salt to versions 2015.8.13, 2016.3.5, or 2016.11.2 or later to mitigate the vulnerability.
- Monitor and restrict network access to the salt-master to prevent unauthorized exploitation.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update and patch SaltStack Salt to the latest versions to ensure protection against known vulnerabilities.
- Implement strong access controls and authentication mechanisms to secure the salt-master.
Patching and Updates
- Apply patches and updates provided by SaltStack to fix the vulnerability and enhance system security.