CVE-2014-3563

What it actually does

Local attackers can abuse insecure temporary file creation in seed.py, salt-ssh, and salt-cloud to perform path traversal, enabling arbitrary file read/write or symlink attacks that result in full system compromise.

Why it matters to the business

Compromise of Salt-managed infrastructure can lead to loss of control over servers and configurations, with high urgency for any remaining legacy deployments given the 2014 publication and complete impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability.

How an attack unfolds

A local attacker identifies writable directories used by the affected components, creates malicious symlinks or races file creation, then triggers Salt operations in seed.py, salt-ssh, or salt-cloud to traverse paths and access or alter sensitive files.

How to fix it

Upgrade Salt to version 2014.1.10 or later; avoid running untrusted local processes on Salt minions and ensure temporary directories use appropriate permissions.

How to confirm the fix worked

Verify Salt version is 2014.1.10 or newer via salt --version; audit code and configurations for any remaining custom temp-file handling in the listed components.

Typical attack path

1. Gain local access on a host running vulnerable Salt components
2. Identify temporary file paths created by seed.py, salt-ssh, or salt-cloud
3. Create symlinks or perform TOCTOU race to redirect file operations
4. Trigger Salt commands that process the temporary files to achieve path traversal
5. Read or write arbitrary files to escalate privileges or persist

How to detect it

Examine system and application logs around Salt process execution for unexpected file operations or permission changes in temporary directories; review historical access to seed.py, salt-ssh, and salt-cloud related paths.

What your security team should do

• Immediately upgrade all Salt installations to 2014.1.10 or a supported later release
• Review and restrict local user access on systems running Salt components
• Monitor for any legacy instances still running versions prior to 2014.1.10