Platform
ruby
Component
puppet
Fixed in
2.7.21
CVE-2013-1655 is a remote code execution (RCE) vulnerability affecting Puppet versions 2.7.x prior to 2.7.21 and 3.1.x prior to 3.1.1. This vulnerability arises from insecure handling of serialized attributes when running Puppet with Ruby 1.9.3 or later, enabling attackers to potentially gain control of affected systems. A fix is available in Puppet 2.7.21 and later, and applying this update is crucial for maintaining system security.
The impact of CVE-2013-1655 is severe, allowing a remote attacker to execute arbitrary code on a vulnerable Puppet agent or master. This could lead to complete system compromise, including data theft, modification, or destruction. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to gain persistent access to the network, move laterally to other systems, and potentially disrupt critical services. The ability to execute arbitrary code bypasses standard authentication and authorization mechanisms, making it a high-risk vulnerability. While no widespread exploitation has been publicly documented, the potential for abuse is significant, particularly in environments with centralized Puppet management.
CVE-2013-1655 was published in 2017, though the underlying vulnerability was discovered earlier. While no active exploitation campaigns have been definitively linked to this CVE, the potential for abuse remains. It is not currently listed on the CISA KEV catalog. Public proof-of-concept exploits are available, demonstrating the feasibility of remote code execution. The vulnerability's impact and the availability of PoCs suggest that it remains a potential target for attackers.
Exploit Status
EPSS
0.63% (70% percentile)
The primary mitigation for CVE-2013-1655 is to upgrade Puppet to version 2.7.21 or later. If immediate upgrading is not possible, consider temporarily disabling the serialization of attributes within Puppet manifests. This can be achieved by carefully reviewing and modifying Puppet code to avoid using serialized attributes where possible. Implement strict network segmentation to limit the potential blast radius of a successful exploit. Monitor Puppet agent and master logs for suspicious activity related to attribute serialization. After upgrading, verify the fix by attempting to trigger the vulnerability using a known serialized attribute payload and confirming that it is no longer exploitable.
No official patch available. Check for workarounds or monitor for updates.
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CVE-2013-1655 is a remote code execution vulnerability affecting Puppet versions 2.7.x before 2.7.21 and 3.1.x before 3.1.1, allowing attackers to execute arbitrary code via insecure attribute serialization.
You are affected if you are running Puppet versions 2.7.x prior to 2.7.21 or 3.1.x prior to 3.1.1, especially when using Ruby 1.9.3 or later.
Upgrade Puppet to version 2.7.21 or later. As a temporary workaround, disable attribute serialization in your Puppet manifests.
While no widespread exploitation has been confirmed, the availability of public proof-of-concept exploits suggests a potential risk.
Refer to the Puppet security advisory for details: https://puppet.com/security/advisories/puppet-security-advisory-2013-0006
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