CVE-2023-5214: Puppet Bolt privilege escalation vulnerability
Summary
CVE-2023-5214: Puppet Bolt privilege escalation vulnerability. Affects bolt versions < 3.27.4. Fixed in 3.27.4. How to fix ↓
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Background
Puppet Bolt is a RubyGems package that provides a command-line interface for executing commands, scripts, and tasks across a network of remote systems. It is commonly used for automation and orchestration purposes. However, versions prior to 3.27.4 are susceptible to a privilege escalation vulnerability.
Vulnerability Detail
The identified vulnerability in Puppet Bolt allows for the escalation of privileges. This means that an attacker with limited privileges can exploit a specific path to gain elevated access and perform unauthorized actions. The impact of this vulnerability can range from unauthorized access to sensitive information to the execution of malicious commands with elevated privileges.
How To Fix
Latest published version: 4.0.0 as of 22 Oct 2026
gem install bolt -v 4.0.0
Upgrading to it may include breaking changes; the version below is the minimum fixed release for this vulnerability.
If you need the minimum change
3.27.4
This is the first release that contains the fix.
gem install bolt -v 3.27.4
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Workaround
Currently, there is no known workaround for this vulnerability. It is crucial to update to the latest version of Puppet Bolt to address the issue effectively.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Puppet Bolt privilege escalation vulnerability (CVE-2023-5214) poses a risk of unauthorized access and malicious actions. It is essential to update to version 3.27.4 or later to mitigate this vulnerability. For further support and assistance in vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.
See every vulnerability recorded for bolt →
FAQ
Puppet Bolt is a RubyGems package that provides a command-line interface for executing commands, scripts, and tasks across a network of remote systems. It is commonly used for automation and orchestration purposes.
The vulnerability allows for privilege escalation, enabling an attacker to gain elevated access and perform unauthorized actions. This can lead to unauthorized access to sensitive information or the execution of malicious commands with elevated privileges.
To fix this vulnerability, update Puppet Bolt to version 3.27.4 or later. This update includes the necessary patches and security enhancements to mitigate the privilege escalation vulnerability.
Currently, there is no known workaround for this vulnerability. It is crucial to update to the latest version of Puppet Bolt to address the issue effectively.
For more information about this vulnerability, refer to the official advisory provided by the Puppet project.
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