CVE-2018-6508 : Security Advisory and Response

Puppet Enterprise versions prior to 2017.3.4 and several Puppet modules are vulnerable to remote code execution due to a security flaw. Learn about the impact, technical details, and mitigation steps.

Understanding CVE-2018-6508

What is CVE-2018-6508?

Puppet Enterprise and specific Puppet modules have a vulnerability that allows remote code execution when certain input strings are used in tasks.

The Impact of CVE-2018-6508

Versions of Puppet Enterprise before 2017.3.3 are susceptible to remote code execution if manipulated strings are passed into certain tasks within affected modules.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-6508

Vulnerability Description

The security flaw in Puppet Enterprise and related modules enables remote code execution by exploiting specific input strings in tasks.

Affected Systems and Versions

Puppet Enterprise versions prior to 2017.3.4
puppetlabs/facter_task prior to 0.1.5
puppetlabs/puppet_conf prior to 0.1.5
puppetlabs/apt prior to 4.5.1
puppetlabs/mysql prior to 5.2.1
puppetlabs/apache prior to 2.3.1

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability arises when certain strings are provided as input for facter_task or puppet_conf tasks, allowing attackers to execute remote code.

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Puppet Enterprise to version 2017.3.4 or later
Upgrade puppetlabs/facter_task, puppetlabs/puppet_conf, puppetlabs/apt, puppetlabs/mysql, and puppetlabs/apache to secure versions

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly monitor and apply security patches for Puppet products
Implement strict input validation to prevent code injection attacks

Patching and Updates

Apply the latest security patches and updates provided by Puppet to address the CVE-2018-6508 vulnerability.