CVE-2020-11652
Published: November 3, 2021
Official Description
SaltStack Salt contains a path traversal vulnerability in the salt-master process ClearFuncs which allows directory access to authenticated users. Salt users who follow fundamental internet security guidelines and best practices are not affected by this vulnerability.
CISA KEV Advisory
SaltStack Salt Path Traversal Vulnerability
SaltStack Salt contains a path traversal vulnerability in the salt-master process ClearFuncs which allows directory access to authenticated users. Salt users who follow fundamental internet security guidelines and best practices are not affected by this vulnerability.
Apply updates per vendor instructions.
Risk Analysis
This path traversal vulnerability in the salt-master process ClearFuncs of SaltStack Salt allows authenticated users directory access. The high EPSS score of 0.94265 and its presence in the KEV catalog indicate a very high likelihood of exploitation and critical urgency.
Active exploitation of this vulnerability has been observed in the wild, and it is confirmed to be exploited by CISA, indicating a severe and immediate threat.
Update SaltStack Salt to a patched version to address this path traversal vulnerability. Ensure that fundamental internet security guidelines and best practices are followed for Salt deployments.
Technical Analysis
CVE-2020-11652 requires local access, meaning attackers must already have a foothold on the target system.
Exploitation requires some privileges, which limits the exposure to scenarios where an attacker has already gained initial access.
CISA has added CVE-2020-11652 to the Known Exploited Vulnerabilities (KEV) catalog, confirming active exploitation in the wild. U.S. federal agencies are required to patch this within the mandated timeframe, and all organizations should treat remediation as urgent.
Exploit & PoC Resources
All References (1)
Quick Facts
Recommended Actions
- →Apply vendor patches immediately
- →Monitor CVE-2020-11652 in threat intel feeds
- →Review IDS/IPS signatures for exploitation attempts
- !CISA KEV: Federal agencies must patch per BOD 22-01 timeline
- !Active exploitation confirmed — treat as P1