CVE-2024-11079

What it actually does

Bypasses unsafe content protections in Ansible-Core by using the hostvars object to reference and execute templated content from remote data or module outputs, resulting in arbitrary code execution within playbooks.

Why it matters to the business

Enables attackers to run unauthorized code on managed systems through automation workflows, risking infrastructure compromise, data breaches, and operational disruption; low EPSS and no KEV status indicate limited observed urgency but still requires prompt attention given RCE family.

How an attack unfolds

An attacker provides malicious content via remote data sources or module outputs that playbooks reference through hostvars, bypassing protections and causing template execution to run arbitrary code; no named threat actors or ransomware use noted.

How to fix it

Upgrade affected Ansible-Core installations to patched releases that prevent hostvars-based templating bypass; for listed products apply flashplugin-nonfree (Ubuntu:14.04:LTS) fixes to 11.2.202.554ubuntu0.14.04.1 where applicable.

How to confirm the fix worked

Review playbooks for hostvars usage with remote or module-sourced content, test execution after upgrades, and confirm no templating of untrusted data occurs.

Typical attack path

1. Identify Ansible playbooks that reference remote data or module outputs via hostvars
2. Inject or supply attacker-controlled templated content
3. Trigger playbook execution that processes the hostvars reference
4. Bypass unsafe content checks to achieve code execution

How to detect it

Search automation logs and playbook execution traces for unusual hostvars references combined with external data sources or module outputs that result in unexpected command execution.

What your security team should do

• Prioritize patching Ansible-Core instances handling untrusted inputs
• Audit playbooks for improper hostvars templating of remote data
• Monitor EPSS trend for any increase indicating rising exploit likelihood
• Implement strict content validation in automation workflows