CVE-2017-8109 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies
Learn about CVE-2017-8109 affecting SaltStack Salt 2016.11. Find out how local attackers could access credentials from the Salt Master and how to mitigate this vulnerability.
SaltStack Salt 2016.11 prior to version 2016.11.4 has a vulnerability in the salt-ssh minion code that allows local attackers to access credentials from the Salt Master without proper permission adjustments.
Understanding CVE-2017-8109
SaltStack Salt 2016.11 prior to version 2016.11.4 has a vulnerability that could lead to unauthorized access to credentials.
What is CVE-2017-8109?
The salt-ssh minion code in SaltStack Salt 2016.11 before 2016.11.4 copied over configuration from the Salt Master without adjusting permissions, potentially leaking credentials to local attackers on configured minions.
The Impact of CVE-2017-8109
This vulnerability could allow local attackers on configured minions to access credentials inadvertently copied from the Salt Master, compromising sensitive information.
Technical Details of CVE-2017-8109
SaltStack Salt 2016.11 prior to version 2016.11.4 is affected by this vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The salt-ssh minion code in SaltStack Salt 2016.11 before 2016.11.4 copied over configuration from the Salt Master without adjusting permissions, potentially leaking credentials to local attackers on configured minions.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: n/a
- Vendor: n/a
- Versions affected: n/a
Exploitation Mechanism
Local attackers on configured minions could exploit this vulnerability to access credentials inadvertently copied from the Salt Master.
Mitigation and Prevention
Immediate Steps to Take:
- Upgrade SaltStack Salt to version 2016.11.4 or later.
- Restrict access to the Salt Master to authorized personnel only.
- Monitor and audit access to sensitive credentials.
Long-Term Security Practices:
- Regularly update and patch SaltStack Salt to mitigate known vulnerabilities.
- Implement least privilege access controls to limit exposure of sensitive information.
- Educate users on secure credential management practices.
- Conduct regular security assessments and penetration testing.
- Stay informed about security advisories and updates from SaltStack.
- Consider implementing additional security measures such as multi-factor authentication.
Patching and Updates
Ensure that SaltStack Salt is updated to version 2016.11.4 or later to address this vulnerability.