CVE-2021-33226

Buffer Overflow vulnerability in Saltstack v.3003 and before allows attacker to execute arbitrary code via the func variable in salt/salt/modules/status.py…

Critical · published February 17, 2023

CVSS v3.1
9.8
EPSS
2%
Percentile
76.3
In the wild
Unconfirmed
What it is

🔥 A buffer overflow in Saltstack versions 3003 and earlier could let an attacker execute arbitrary code just by messing with the 'func' variable — a prime opportunity for mischief! Think of it like a crowded restaurant where someone manages to sneak into the kitchen by creating a fake reservation. If they can influence the chef's special of the day, they might cook up something uninvited and chaos ensues! An attacker could potentially gain control of the system, running any code they desire. Imagine the sheer havoc they could wreak: accessing sensitive information, altering configurations, or even sabotaging services. This is absolutely devastating, especially for systems that rely on Saltstack for configuration management.

Put simply

Think of it like a crowded restaurant where someone manages to sneak into the kitchen by creating a fake reservation. If they can influence the chef's special of the day, they might cook up something uninvited and chaos ensues! This vulnerability arises from a buffer overflow in the salt/salt/modules/status.py file, allowing attackers to exploit the 'func' variable to execute arbitrary code. While there's some debate about whether an attacker can actually influence the eval input, the risk remains alarming!

What to do

An attacker could potentially gain control of the system, running any code they desire. Imagine the sheer havoc they could wreak: accessing sensitive information, altering configurations, or even sabotaging services. This is absolutely devastating, especially for systems that rely on Saltstack for configuration management. To safeguard your systems, immediately upgrade to Saltstack version 3004 or later. Additionally, review your configurations to ensure they minimize the risk of unauthorized code execution and monitor for any unusual activities. Don't put this off! You've got this! With these steps, you can ensure your systems are safe and sound! 🛡️

The record
Technical detail
CVSS v3.1
9.8 · CRITICAL
Vector
CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:N/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H
CVSS v4.0
Not supplied
EPSS
0.01642 · 76.3th percentile
Published
2023-02-17T00:00Z
EPSS history
Timeline
  • 17 FEB 00:00Z
    Buffer Overflow vulnerability in Saltstack v.3003 and before allows attacker to execute arbitrary code via the func variable in salt/salt/modules/status.py…
    cvelistv5